Police: Birthday 'Parades' Aren't Safe During Coronavirus Crisis

NARRAGANSETT, RI — Unlike some other community police departments, Narragansett police will not be taking part in "birthday parades" during the coronavirus pandemic. While birthdays are an important celebration, these events violate Gov. Gina Raimondo's stay-at-home order, the department said.

"We have received several requests for police cruisers to be in 'birthday parades' organized by families and friends," the department said in a statement. "We understand how important birthdays are for families and we understand everyone is trying to make them as safe as possible ... We unfortunately cannot participate in or condone these events at this time. Our hope is that once the essential travel ban is lifted, we will be able to help our community celebrate these events."

Birthday parades, whether walking or in vehicles, violates the governor's order that all Rhode Islanders stay at home except for necessary errands such as going to the doctor or getting groceries, the department said. Residents can still go outside, but must practice social distancing: staying at least 6 feet away from others and avoiding gatherings of five people or more.

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