As families and friends gather to celebrate Independence Day, the Memphis Police Department encourages everyone to make safety a priority throughout the holiday weekend.

The Downtown Memphis Commission will host Independence Day on the River on Friday, July 4, at Tom Lee Park. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., with festivities beginning at 6 p.m. The event will feature live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, a drone light show, and fireworks. Those attending should expect increased traffic in the Downtown area and allow extra travel time.

As you celebrate, MPD encourages everyone to keep the following safety tips in mind:

•    Fireworks are prohibited within the City of Memphis without the appropriate permit.

•    Do not fire guns into the air. It is illegal and extremely dangerous. Bullets fired into the air eventually return to the ground and can cause serious injury or death.

•    Never drink and drive. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or arrange for a safe ride home.

•    Lock your vehicle and keep valuables and firearms secured and out of sight.

•    Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in large crowds, and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.

•    Stay hydrated and take precautions during the summer heat.

Residents and visitors are also reminded that drones are prohibited near fireworks displays and drone light shows. Additional information regarding drone safety can be found in the following release:

MPD Reminds Residents of Drone Restrictions Ahead of Independence Day Celebrations

The Memphis Police Department wishes everyone a safe, enjoyable, and responsible Independence Day!