Thousands of people are expected at the New Year’s Eve celebrations around Lake Burley Griffin tonight and police say they will be conducting proactive patrols of the precinct to ensure community safety.

Several roads in the area will be closed, including the Commonwealth Avenue bridge during the fireworks displays at 9pm and midnight.

A/Supt Brett Coutts said while crowds were generally well behaved in previous years, police would be keeping an eye out for illegal or anti-social behaviour.

“If you are going to drink alcohol, then do so in moderation and don’t drive. Police are targeting impaired driving across the territory so don’t start off your new year by placing yourself and other road users at serious risk,” he said.

“Drones are not permitted to be flown around the lake so leave it at home, and once the fireworks are over, please be patient when leaving.

“We want everyone to have a good time, so help us and your fellow revellers by staying safe and making smart decisions.”