Suffolk County

Boston Police urge vigilance, release traffic advisory ahead of St. Patrick’s Day festivities

BOSTON — With a plethora of events honoring Saint Patrick slated for the upcoming weekend, Boston Police are urging patrons to celebrate responsibly and to heed traffic conditions.

Boston Police say the city will have numerous parking restrictions and street closures this weekend, although on Friday, in honor of Evacuation Day, parking meters will be free.

Saturday is a different story.

The annual South Boston Saint Patrick’s Day Parade will be held along the “historical” route from years past, starting on West Broadway and ending at Dorchester Avenue. For a full list of the route and parking restrictions, click here.

Ticketing and towing may begin as early as 5 a.m., with the parade starting at 1 p.m.

On Sunday, the Saint Patrick’s Day Road Race begins on West Sixth Street Girls Club at 11 a.m. All cars will need to be removed before 9 a.m. Parking restrictions will be placed on West Sixth Street (both sides) from F Street to Dorchester Street, F Street, southeast side (the Boys and Girls Club side), and West Sixth Street to Bowen Street.

Police are also urging the public to be on the lookout for dangerous drugs that may be dropped into drinks.

Drugs such as Rohypnol, GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyric acid) or Ketamine are scentless, colorless and tasteless, which makes them popular drugs to be used in drinks of unsuspecting victims, according to Boston Police. These drugs can cause the victim to become disoriented, confused, temporarily paralyzed or knocked unconscious, leaving them vulnerable to the intentions of the suspect.

Authorities are providing the following tips to keep yourself and your friends safe from drink spiking:

  • Watch your drink at all times. Never leave your drink unattended. Take your drink to the restroom if you have to.
  • Be sure that your drink is being served directly by the bartender or your server.
  • Test your drink with test strips or nail polish that light up a certain color if they detect drugs.
  • Get help immediately if you begin to feel dizzy, nauseated, light-headed, or strange in any way.

Police also say to be wary of anyone trying to lure individuals away from their friends when they’re in an inebriated state and to be aware of any uncharacteristic behavior you notice from your acquaintances or strangers.

Patrons are also asked to call police if they notice anyone who appears to be in distress, wandering alone late at night or dressed unsuitably for the weather.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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