Montgomery Township Police Enhance Public Safety with New ATV and Teen Driving Awareness Program

By Nicholas Mistretta

Montgomery Township, NJ – The Montgomery Township Police Department (MTPD) has taken significant steps to enhance public safety and community engagement with the recent acquisition of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and a renewed focus on teen driving awareness.

New ATV Expands Emergency Response Capabilities
The Montgomery Township Police have added a state-of-the-art ATV to their fleet, a move designed to improve emergency response efforts in challenging terrains. The new vehicle will allow officers to access remote areas, wooded landscapes, and disaster zones more efficiently, ensuring quicker response times in emergencies.

“We are excited to add this versatile vehicle to our fleet,” said Police Chief Silvio Bet. “The ATV will significantly improve our ability to respond to emergencies in difficult-to-reach areas, such as wooded areas and the extensive pathway network throughout the township. This vehicle will enhance both our daily patrols and our ability to assist during search and rescue operations.”

Beyond emergency response, the ATV will also play a vital role in public safety during community events, search and rescue missions, and natural disaster situations. The addition is part of the department’s broader commitment to improving safety and accessibility within the community.

Montgomery Police Promote Teen Driving Awareness
In addition to bolstering their emergency response resources, the Montgomery Township Police Department has continued its dedication to teen driving safety awareness. On February 19, 2025, the department sponsored an interactive educational program called THINKFAST for Montgomery High School juniors, thanks to grant funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety, and the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office.

THINKFAST, developed in 1997, is an engaging, evidence-informed program that addresses critical issues such as distracted driving, underage drinking, drug use, and bullying. The interactive format uses wireless keypads to connect students to the message, encouraging participation and retention through entertainment and educational challenges.

The goal of the program is to foster lasting changes in the attitudes and behaviors of teen drivers, helping reduce risky behaviors behind the wheel.

Looking ahead, the Montgomery Township Police Department is partnering with the Montgomery Health Department to bring another THINKFAST program to local students. On June 6, 2025, the initiative will focus on vaping and e-cigarette awareness for freshman and sophomore students at Montgomery High School. The program aims to educate teens about the harmful chemicals found in e-cigarettes, including nicotine, and to prevent the initiation of tobacco use.

Chief Bet emphasized the importance of these initiatives in promoting a healthier and safer community. “Our department remains committed to educating our youth and fostering awareness that can lead to safer decisions. Through these programs, we hope to cultivate positive habits that extend well beyond the classroom.”