Police vehicles will be located at strategic spots over all three islands New Year's Eve to provide extra protection in the event of any Y2K glitches.
As of midnight Dec. 31, according to Police commissioner Franz A. Christian Sr., police cars will be located in St. Thomas at the following four locations:
* West – Bordeaux Convenience Store
* East – Red Hook Dock
* North – Four Corners (Solberg)
* South – Bovoni (Nadir intersection)
The cars will have their dome lights on to make them easily identifiable. The commissioner said that while he doesn't anticipate any major problems, this step will ensure the continuity of service in the territory.
He said that 911 in all districts is fully operational. Also, the police will be working closely with federal authorities over the New Year's weekend to assure the territory's safety.
Theodore Carty, deputy Police chief, said Thursday that the Police Department has canceled leave for all officers over the holiday weekend to beef up the force and ensure sufficient backup.
"We will be doing much of the regular holiday routine, with some stepped-up precautions," Carty said.
For instance, the Water and Power Authority's installations will be checked at regular intervals, as will the Roy L. Schneider Hospital. Extra guards will be on duty at the territory's jails as well.
Roadblocks to deter drunk drivers and to check identification will be in effect, as on regular holiday weekends.
"We don't really expect a lot of trouble, but we have to be prepared," Carty said,