Pittsburgh Fourth Of July Celebration Safety Guidelines Released

PITTSBURGH, PA -Typically large crowds are expected to congregate at Point State Park, on the North Shore, Downtown and Mt. Washington for the city's Fourth of July celebration Thursday, and Pittsburgh public safety officials have released guidelines that should help ensure a safe time for the festivities.

Officials have issued a reminder that fireworks are prohibited in Point State Park and no fireworks can be detonated within 150 feet of any structure. They warned anyone setting off fireworks illegally will be arrested.

"The Fourth of July is a great American tradition and a great Pittsburgh tradition, but we want and expect people to celebrate responsibly,” Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said in a statement.. “As in past years, there will be zero-tolerance for any type of disorderly conduct,
to include illegal use of fireworks, fighting, public intoxication, underage drinking, or any type of violence.”

Other prohibited items in the park include, but are not limited to: Alcohol, drones, grills, laser pointers, weapons, explosives or ammunition. Open carry is not permitted. Law enforcement will establish security checks inside the park to screen bags for prohibited items.

State, County and City Mounted Units will be present; River Rescue, Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire and the Coast Guard will be on the city’s three rivers to enforce laws.

Pittsburgh EMS, State Park Rangers and multiple partner agencies, including Allegheny County Police, the County Sheriff’s Office, State Police, Port Authority Police and Juvenile Probation will team up in an attempt to assure a safe experience for all.