TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tampa Police are gearing up for a busy weekend as thousands of people are expected to gather for Liberty by the Bay.
The Independence Day celebration is scheduled for Saturday at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, beginning at 4 p.m. The event will include fireworks, family-friendly activities, and a drone light show.
According to TPD, roughly 1,000 officers will be assigned to the event, with patrols planned both on land and along the water to help keep attendees safe.
“We are going to be everywhere,” said Chief Lee Bercaw.
The department’s security plan will stretch across multiple areas, with helicopters and drones monitoring from above, uniformed and plain-clothes officers patrolling on foot and bicycles, and marine units positioned on the water.
“Every boat will have divers, rescue divers, on board. We do have emergency action plans in place. Our goal is to let everybody have a good time but to make sure everybody stays safe,” said Officer Dan Spears, with TPD.
Chief Bercaw said the department will have a significant presence downtown and at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, with every Tampa police officer expected to be on duty that day.
Bercaw emphasized that while police will be out in force, public safety will also depend on those attending the celebration doing their part.
“We are ready, but we want to put that out to everybody, do your part. Don’t drink and drive, have a designated driver, remember boat safety techniques,” he said.
The last thing Chief Bercaw said they want is for someone to end up behind bars or hurting someone.
With thousands and thousands of people expected to attend, people need to keep an eye out for anything suspicious.
“We’re putting measures in place, you can see we’re putting fencing up, we’re having extra drones out here and officers,” Chief Bercaw said.
If you are out on the water, you are asked to make sure you have all the necessary safety equipment on board, like life jackets and fire extinguishers, but police said regardless if you are a driver, or passenger, you need to pay attention.
The number one thing on their radar while on the water is a clean flow of boats.
“Nothing being obstructed, obstructions in the water, what hazards can we prevent or intercept before it becomes an issue,” Officer Spears said.
The day is going to be filled with excitement, parades, fireworks, and celebrations, those behind the badge want to ensure every family gets home safe.
“We’re going to be out here, you’re going to feel safe when you see all the police officers, and there’s so much fun and activities out here,” Chief Bercaw said.
As always, you’re asked to say something if you see something, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to call 911; you can also send them a text message or find an officer near you.
For more on Liberty by the Bay, click here.
