APD Offers Tips for Safe Fourth of July

The Independence Day Holiday is a wonderful time in the City of Atlanta rich with summertime traditions that include the Peachtree Road Race, Braves baseball and plenty of fireworks. Chief George Turner and the men and women of the Atlanta Police Department are seeking to remind citizens of a few common-sense precautions that will help lead to a safe and happy Fourth of July.

Residents, visitors and tourists alike should be aware there are many major activities in the City on Wednesday that will draw hundreds of thousands of participants and spectators from the early morning hours until late in the evening. To help reduce congestion, Atlanta Police encourage attendees to plan ahead, ride MARTA, carpool and use other alternate modes of transportation.

, crowds and heavy traffic volume will be expected near key events in Buckhead and elsewhere in Atlanta including:

• . 60,000 runners begin at Lenox Square and end at Piedmont Park (at 10th and Charles Allen Drive). 100,000 spectators. Wheelchair division begins at 6:45 a.m.  Race concludes at noon, though some streets will re-open sooner as runners proceed towards finish line.
• Atlanta Braves v. Chicago Cubs. 7:10 p.m. Turner Field. Estimated crowd of 40,000. Fireworks show to start at conclusion of game.
• . Annual fireworks show expected to draw 150,000 begins at 6 p.m. Fireworks begin approximately 9:35 p.m.
• Centennial Olympic Park 4th of July Celebration. Gates open at 6 p.m. and fireworks expected around 9:40 p.m. Crowd of 35,000-40,000 expected.

“These annual traditions are part of what make Atlanta such a fun and vibrant city,” Chief Turner said. “We want to encourage everyone to have an enjoyable time, but to also take some common-sense measures that will reduce the chances of becoming a victim, particularly of the property crimes that can occur at such large events.”

Theft from motor vehicles is a common crime in which victims can play a key prevention role. The APD hopes motorists take heed of its “Clean Car” campaign and leave nothing in a parked vehicle of value that may tempt thieves. Do not leave items such as laptops, GPS units, purses or firearms in cars. Motorists should also park in well-lighted lots near well-traveled areas.

Also, be aware of your surroundings at all times and participate in the “See Something/Say Something” campaign by calling 9-1-1 to report any suspicious activity.

“There will be plenty of on and off-duty Atlanta Police officers at these events,” said Chief Turner. “But these simple tips will help us reduce crime and ensure we have the most effective response possible.”

A full-service police agency, the Department has adopted a community-oriented policing philosophy and relies heavily upon community input and collaborative problem-solving strategies. It is through heightened community involvement in public safety matters that the Atlanta Police Department will most effectively address its many priorities, including, but not limited to youth-related crime, domestic violence and the fight against crime in Atlanta.

With an authorized strength of more than 2,000 sworn officers, the Atlanta Police Department is the largest law enforcement agency in the State of Georgia, and a dedicated, high-profile force for positive change in area communities.