‘Operation Spring into Safety’ heads to Bradenton

FDOT safety event returns to Bradenton

FOX 13’s Matthew McClellan visited Bradenton ahead of the 2nd Annual Operation Spring into Safety event, set to take place on Saturday.

BRADENTON, Fla. - The 2nd Annual Operation Spring into Safety event is set to take place on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at State College of Florida in Bradenton.

The event, hosted by State College of Florida, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Transportation, is designed to provide families with an interactive look at public safety, emergency response, and road construction equipment.

Promotional poster for Operation Spring into Safety event. Courtesy: Florida Dept. of Transportation.

Attendees will have the opportunity to see and explore a variety of vehicles, including:

Fire and rescue trucks
Law enforcement vehicles, including a SWAT Bearcat armored vehicle
Helicopters used for emergency response
Construction equipment used in road and bridge projects
Bomb squad vehicles, marine airboats, and swamp buggies

In addition to vehicle displays, the event will also offer a free helmet fitting station and a bike confidence course aimed at promoting bicycle safety. Food trucks will be on-site as well.

Mascots, including Marty the Marauder, Maverick the Manatee, and Vince and Larry the Crash Test Dummies, will also be present.

According to organizers, the event is designed to give children and families a closer look at the equipment and personnel involved in public safety. Officials emphasize that early education about safety—whether related to traffic, emergency preparedness, or bicycle safety—can help prevent injuries and improve community awareness.

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