Police Urge Residents to Celebrate Safely This Independence Day

Published on June 30, 2025

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West Palm Beach Police Urge Residents to Celebrate Safely This Independence Day

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (June 30, 2025) — As Independence Day approaches, the West Palm Beach Police Department is reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and safely this 4th of July.

FIREWORK SAFETY REMINDERS

Every year, fireworks cause thousands of injuries and fires across the country—many of them preventable.

  • If you plan to use fireworks, please follow these safety tips:
  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older children should be closely supervised.
  • Always light fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area, away from homes, dry grass, and flammable materials.
  • Protect your pets. Keep animals indoors and away from loud noises to prevent distress or escape.
  • Be respectful of neighbors, especially veterans or those sensitive to loud sounds.

CELEBRATORY GUNFIRE IS NOT A CELEBRATION — IT’S A CRIME

Firing guns into the air to mark the holiday is dangerous, illegal, and potentially deadly. Bullets fired into the sky must come down—and when they do, they can injure or kill innocent people.

ATTEND “4TH ON FLAGLER” – A SAFE, FUN, AND LEGAL CELEBRATION

Instead of setting off fireworks or engaging in unsafe celebrations, we strongly encourage residents to attend the City of West Palm Beach’s annual “4th on Flagler” event. This free, family-friendly celebration features live music, food vendors, entertainment, and a spectacular professional fireworks show over the Intracoastal Waterway.

“4th on Flagler” offers a safe and festive environment for all ages and is the best way to celebrate Independence Day within city limits.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

  • Attend “4th on Flagler” and enjoy a safe, city-sanctioned celebration.
  • Report illegal fireworks or celebratory gunfire to our non-emergency line at 561-822-1900, or call 911 in case of an emergency.
  • Keep pets indoors and provide comfort during fireworks or loud noises.
  • Talk to children and teens about the dangers of fireworks and firearms.

Let’s make this Fourth of July a celebration to remember for the right reasons—joy, unity, and safety.

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Rachel Leitao

Public Information Officer

pdpio@wpb.org

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