RICHMOND, Ky. (WKYT) – Independence Day and all the celebrations that come with it are just days away, but Richmond Police say you can’t have a happy holiday without having a safe one.
Whether you’re going to or coming back from a party, stopping by your local parade, heading out of town, or just doing day-to-day errands, holiday weekends are always busy with travelers.
“Fourth of July is a great time to celebrate with friends and family. That’s when we see an uptick in traveling in Kentucky and across the nation; we just want to encourage drivers who are traveling for the holiday to take it slow, be safe, be careful, and make it home safely,” said Makenzie Davis, Administrative Support Specialist.
Davis says with more cars on the road, distracted drivers should be something everyone is looking out for.
This goes for driving under the influence, too. Police are urging you not to get behind the wheel if you’ve consumed drugs or alcohol, but if you see someone else on the road who has, stay alert.
“Some of those swerving, high speeds, anything of that nature, being cautious of those drivers,” said Davis.
It’s not unusual to see spectators watching a fireworks show from the side of the road, which also has the potential to be dangerous.
Davis shares how to do it safely.
“If you do need to pull over and watch something make sure you’re in a safe location. Use the shoulders, try to pull off into a parking lot somewhere, gas station, any of those options where you can step out and watch safely from a distance.”
As always, if you see something, say something!
“If you see anything questionable, of course, if it’s life-threatening, call 911, but if think there may be some kind of issue going on, contact your local dispatch center,” said Davis.
Following these rules not just on the Fourth of July but for the rest of the day means you’re doing your part to keep the community safe.
