Pittsburgh Police To Be Vigilant For St. Patrick's Day Weeekend

PITTSBURGH, PA — Even with the city's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade moving to fall this year because of the coronavirus outbreak, Pittsburgh public safety officials are warning people to keep the weekend's traditional revelry to a minimum

Public Safety Department director Wendell Hissrich on Thursday cautioned against underage drinking, public intoxication and drinking and driving. Pittsburgh Police and other law
enforcement agencies will monitor crowds for any illegal activity, and DUI patrols will be out as well.

Open container laws will be strictly enforced. While the state has allowed restaurants to sell cocktails-to-go during the pandemic, it is illegal for such beverages to be consumed in public spaces. Anyone caught with an open container will be cited.

Pittsburgh fire officials will conduct occupancy checks, and will clear and close any establishment that exceeds occupancy limits.

Police also will monitor city security cameras for illegal activity. Officers on horseback, bicycles, motorcycles and foot patrols will also be utilized.