Cleveland offers fireworks and heat safety reminders ahead of holiday

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The City of Cleveland has issued some safety and logistical reminders ahead of the Fourth of July celebrations, which they say they expect to attract almost 100,000 people to downtown and Edgewater Park.

The first reminder: the possession and use of fireworks within the city limits is illegal.

“Please leave fireworks displays to the professionals to prevent the risk of physical harm, accidental fires, and damage to property,” reads a post from the city.

Police also caution against celebratory gunfire and “unnecessary loud noise.”

If you’re bringing children to a crowded event, police recommend establishing a reunification point. They say if you lose your child in a crowd, you should call 911 to report them missing. They urge children to look for someone in uniform if they’re lost.

“Watch children closely at events where fireworks are used,” the post reads. “Never let children handle fireworks.”

The division of fire warns the public to not open any hydrants, noting they can deplete the water that could be needed for a fire.

Grilling is a popular pastime on Independence Day, but the division of fire is reminding those celebrating that they should only use propane and charcoal grills outside and at least three feet from their home or anything flammable.

The division of EMS is warning about the dangers of heat emergencies, as people spend their day and evening outdoors. They note that older people, very young people and those with chronic medical conditions are most at risk.

They specify three types of these emergencies: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The first of these can be treated by ceasing activity, getting cool and ingesting fluids.

The third, heat stroke, can be identified by “dizziness, slurred speech, seizures and unresponsiveness.” They recommend an immediate call to 911 in addition to cooling the individual.

“Do your best to avoid becoming overheated,” the post reads. “Wear loose clothing, stay in a cool location if possible, and drink plenty of fluids. Check in on the elderly and watch children closely. These emergencies can come on and progress quickly; if you see any signs of heat illness in yourself or others, be sure to stop activity and cool down.”

The Division of Animal Care & Control recommends pets be left inside if fireworks are occurring in your area, as the loud noises could spook them and cause them to run away.

They also recommend keeping them inside if it is extremely hot, making sure they have water and shade if outside, keeping them off hot asphalt and keeping an eye out for heat stress. They also stress to never leave a pet in the car.

Finally, for some logistical advice, the police encourage the public to expect longer travel times if heading to a popular destination. They also note that some road closures are likely for those planning on heading to Edgewater Park.

They also recommend citizens read parking signs downtown, as various holiday parking restrictions will be in effect.

“The City of Cleveland and its Safety Divisions are working around the clock to ensure a safe holiday for all visitors and residents,” the city’s post reads. “These efforts are part of Mayor Bibb’s Summer Safety Plan, a comprehensive All-Of-Government approach to reducing crime citywide.”