Mayor Jane Castor and public safety officials held a press conference, on June 30, to outline safety plans, transportation options and road closures ahead of Tampa's "Liberty by the Bay" celebration on Saturday, which is expected to draw thousands of residents and visitors downtown.
Officials encouraged attendees to sign up for real-time event updates by texting TAMPA250 to 888-777.
Liberty by the Bay begins at 4 p.m. at Julian B. Lane Park and extends along the Tampa Riverwalk to Sparkman Wharf. The celebration will feature live entertainment, a water ski show, a boat parade and a fireworks display.
"The entire downtown will be activated," Castor said.
With large crowds expected, several roads will be closed throughout downtown. Officials encouraged attendees to use free transportation options, including the Jolley Trolley shuttle service and the TECO Line Streetcar.
"We want to make transportation as easy as possible," Castor said. "We want everybody to spend less time worrying about the traffic issues and be able to come down and enjoy the festivities and have a great time, stress-free getting into and out of the area."
The Jolley Trolley will operate before, during and after the event.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said every available officer will be working Saturday, with law enforcement stationed on foot, bicycles, boats, horses and in helicopters.
"We want everybody to be safe," Castor said. "Don't drink and drive. There are so many police officers out there. If you're drinking and driving, you're going to get pulled over, you're going to get arrested. It'll be the worst day of your life instead of the best day of your life."
Bercaw also urged boaters to monitor the weather before heading onto the water, as storms are possible Saturday.
He reminded residents that celebratory gunfire is illegal and dangerous.
"We also want to put out a message about how gunfire will not be tolerated," Bercaw said. "Obviously, when a bullet goes up, it comes down. We can't have that. Remember that firing a gun in the air is not a celebration. It's a crime."
Bercaw said public safety is a shared responsibility and encouraged residents to report anything suspicious.
"I don't want to be a cliché about it, but it's important. If you see something, say something," he said. "Something as simple as a suspicious bag — let us know. Celebrate responsibly, follow the law, watch out for family and friends and make decisions that keep everyone safe."
Tampa Fire Rescue Chief Barbara Tripp reminded residents that fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition but can also cause serious injuries and fires if not used responsibly.
She shared several safety tips:
Keep fireworks away from homes, vehicles, mulch, dry grass and trees.
Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby.
Never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks.
Light only one firework at a time.
Never attempt to relight a malfunctioning firework.
Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Soak used fireworks overnight before disposing of them.
"Tampa Fire Rescue will be fully staffed and ready to respond to any medical emergencies throughout the weekend," Tripp said.
Officials also said cooling stations and free water stations will be available at Julian B. Lane Park to help attendees stay safe in the summer heat.
Overall, officials said they hope residents will enjoy the celebration marking America's 250th anniversary while celebrating safely and responsibly.