The Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department received their own Christmas present this year, eight shiny new patrol vehicles to replace some of their aging fleet.

The new cars can already been seen the street this week and the morale of the officers driving them has already seemed to increase.

For civilians and law enforcement alike, being fortunate enough to drive a new car is a huge blessing.

But, patrol vehicles are a valuable piece of equipment for our law enforcement officers who have a large county to patrol and keep safe.

We commend the Pearl River County Board of Supervisors for approving the purchase.

A story in yesterday’s Item states each deputy sometimes drives between 250 and 400 miles per 12-hour shift. Spending that much time in an old, run-down vehicle can damper the spirit of a law enforcement officer. 

Some officers with the Picayune Police Department also received new vehicles within the past year.

Between the two agencies, the amount of arrests and patrols they conduct to ensure our safety definitely justifies them proper equipment.

However, the community has a role to play in helping take care of these new vehicles.

Drivers should take the proper precaution when emergency signals and lights are seen or heard on the road.

Be sure to slow down or pull off to the side of the road to allow law enforcement to proceed to their call with ease.

You never know when you might need an officer’s presence at your home, so be sure driveways have enough clearance for emergency vehicles to make it to your home safely.