FORT BENNING, Ga., (June 29, 2016) -- Barbecues and social gatherings are to be expected during the summer. Military police, however, want residents to make sure their festivities do not interfere with nearby neighbors' rest and relaxation.

Maj. Joseph Labranche, operations officer for the Directorate of Emergency Services, encourages residents to pay attention to curfew hours.

"At night, people who are still spending their time outside can conflict with people who go to bed earlier. We want to make sure that residents are abiding by the curfew hours."

LaBranche made it clear that curfew hours do not change during the summer months. However, depending on the individual, curfew hours may change during the week.

"Individuals under 16 have to be in quarters from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, individuals under 16 have to be in quarters from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m."

According to LaBranche, even though individuals 16 and younger need to be in their quarters, this doesn't mean they have to necessarily be locked up in their house.

"Within quarters, you can be out with your Family in events like barbecues. They just need to be underneath supervision."

"Curfew hours are important for the overall good order and discipline of the installation. It also supports your neighbors, ensuring that they have a peaceful and quiet living environment on the installation."

Quiet hours also do not change during summer months. Quiet hours are between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 1 a.m. to 8 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

LaBranche encourages residents to make sure that they are taking the necessary steps to prevent any security breaches during the summer.

"A lot of times individuals leave their garage doors open, which tends to allow crimes of opportunity.

People will walk in and grab something when no one is looking. It is very important for residents to secure their property."

"We also ask residents not to leave high value items in their cars. Certain individuals, presented with the opportunity to steal, will seize materials if they can get away with it."

The quarter's check is also another way for residents to protect their belongings in the event that they are absent from their property.

"If residents are going on vacation, they can stop by the military police station and issue a quarter's check. Military police will perform a quarter's check at the residents home while they are away to make sure that the resident's property is secure."

For more information on the quarter's check or safety procedures, contact the military police station at 706-545-5224.