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Dallas College Student Blog: Celebrate The Fourth Of July Safely With These Tips From The Dallas College Police

Happy Fourth of July! This year, celebrate America's Declaration of Independence in a safe way. Our Dallas College Police Department has ...

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Press release from Dallas College Student Blog:

July 1, 2021

Happy Fourth of July! This year, celebrate America’s Declaration of Independence in a safe way. Our Dallas College Police Department has safety tips to cover a range of activities you might enjoy this weekend.

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Sparklers and Fireworks

Take the proper precautions when operating fireworks. Remember, operating your own fireworks is illegal inside the city of Dallas, and Dallas Police Department will fine you $2,000 if you’re caught creating your own show. If you’re outside of Dallas and in an area which allows fireworks, remember these rules:

  • Never try to make your own fireworks.
  • Never point sparklers or fireworks at yourself or others, especially while they are being lit.
  • Always light fireworks on the ground and in areas that are dry and fire resistant.
  • Always light fireworks one at a time.
  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers.
  • Keep a portable fire extinguisher, water hose, or buckets of water nearby just in case of fire.
  • Do not relight fireworks if they malfunction.
  • Do not discharge a firearm into the air. In Dallas, firing weapons in the air can result in a one-year jail sentence, a $4,000 fine or even a deadly conduct charge, which carries a maximum jail sentence of 10 years.

    • Grills

    July is one of the most exciting months for grilling meals outdoors with friends and family.

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  • Before grilling, always check gas grill hoses for cracks, holes or leaks.
  • Keep children and pets away from grills.
  • Never grill on any surface that might catch fire.
  • Always keep the grill at least two feet away from any outdoor equipment or structures that could catch fire easily, and do not keep the grill on a wooden porch or a small apartment balcony.

    • Water Activities

    July is one of the hottest months of the year, so many of us turn to the pool or visit a lake to beat the heat. Make sure to stay safe in and around the water.

  • Understand water safety rules and keep a first aid kit nearby.
  • Make sure you understand safe boat operating practices, and ensure there are life jackets onboard for every passenger.
  • Never go swimming or operate a boat after drinking alcohol.
  • Never leave children unattended near water.

    • Alcohol

    Drink responsibly. Do not drink and drive, and follow all state laws related to drinking ages and drinking in public. Also, July 4 is a Sunday, which means that liquor stores will be closed and liquor sales will not be permitted.

  • Never put yourself in a position where you might drink and drive. Choose a designated driver before celebrations begin, or take DART public transit (with your free student GoPass). You can also use apps like Uber or Lyft.
  • Never ride in a car with a driver who may be under the influence of alcohol.

    • This year, the July 4 weekend is a “no refusal” weekend, which means that if a suspected drunk driver is pulled over by the Dallas Police Department and refuses to give a breath or blood sample, DPD will obtain a search warrant to draw a blood sample.

    Stay safe, have fun and celebrate American independence responsibly!

    This press release was produced by Dallas College Student Blog. The views expressed here are the author’s own.

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