TAMPA, Fla. — Between New Year's Eve and Tuesday's Reliaquest Bowl, Tampa is going to be busy with thousands of people celebrating in the city.

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said his department will be increasing patrols, while also reminding the public of steps they can take to keep themselves and the community safe.

Monday evening, Alabama crimson mingled with Michigan maize and blue as crowds of college football fans lined 7th Ave. in Ybor City.

What You Need To Know

  • Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said his department will increase patrols in anticipation of crowds attending Tuesday's Reliaquest Bowl and New Year's Eve celebration

  • The chief is also reminding people to use a designated driver or ride share if they plan to have celebratory drinks

  • Bercaw says celebratory New Year's Eve gunfire is illegal, and reminds people to use fireworks responsibly

  • The chief asks that if you see something, say something - either by calling 911 in an emergency or texting tips to TIP 411

"Oh, it's been so exciting. We were really happy they made it," said Michigan fan Maura Bailey, who made the trip from Lancaster, Mass. to support her daughter, who is a member of Michigan's dance team.

"It's great, fantastic," said Kevin Hawley, another dance team parent who traveled from Dexter, Mich.. 

Fans like Bailey and Hawley traveled from around the country to watch their teams face off in the Reliaquest Bowl. The Ybor Bowl Blast parade was just the start of events expected to bring out crowds - from the game itself to New Year's Eve celebrations.

"While this is an exciting time for our community, businesses, and visitors, we want everyone to be safe," said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw.

Bercaw said there will be extra officers on foot patrol, horseback, in the air, and in plainclothes. Visitors said they've noticed the increased presence.

"There's so much security, it's been amazing," said Bailey. "Feel really great - no issues whatsoever. I'm really impressed."

"It seems fantastic. It feels very safe. People are relaxed," said Hawley.

The chief is also asking for the community's help.

Anyone who plans to drink is asked to use a designated driver or ride share. Bercaw said officers arrested 40 people for DUI during last year's enforcement effort. He's also reminding the public to use fireworks responsibly and that celebratory gunfire is illegal. Bercaw is asking the public - if you see something, say something - either by calling 911 in an emergency or texting tips to TIP 411.

"There's officers everywhere," said Bercaw. "You can call us, you can text us, but we need everybody's eyes and ears."