Nearly 100,000 people are expected to celebrate Independence Day in Cleveland’s lakefront.
July 1, 2025 – Cleveland – To ensure a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration, the Divisions of Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, and Animal Care and Control are sharing the following safety information:
DIVISION OF POLICE
Travel and Parking
Those visiting parks and gathering places where big crowds are expected should allow plenty of time for travel. Citizens should expect parking restrictions over the holiday weekend. We encourage residents and visitors to read signs posted in the Downtown area as parking restrictions occur.
Fireworks, Celebratory Gunfire, and Unnecessary Noise
In Cleveland, fireworks are illegal to possess and discharge without a permit. Celebratory gunfire is extremely dangerous. Firing weapons irresponsibly can cause death, serious injury, and damage to property. To prevent the risk of physical harm, accidental fires, and damage to property, please leave fireworks displays to the professionals. Unnecessary loud noise is prohibited, and violators can be cited based on the extent of evidence in each case.
Child Safety
When attending crowded events with children, it is important to establish a family reunification point should they become separated. If a child is lost in a crowd, call 9-1-1 and report them missing to law enforcement. Bring a current picture to help law enforcement identify and locate the lost child. If a child separates from their family, they should look for someone in uniform for help. Watch children closely at events where fireworks are used.
DIVISION OF FIRE
Grilling Safety
Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors, at least three feet away from a home, and away from leaves or overhanging tree branches.
- Remember to start a gas grill with the lid open and shut it off at the tank upon completion.
- Never add lighter fuel or flammable liquid to the flames of a charcoal grill.
- Let the coals cool completely before disposing in a metal container.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet from a hot grill.
- Never leave a grill unattended.
Fire Hydrant Safety
Do not open fire hydrants for any reason. An open hydrant can diminish the amount of water available for a fire emergency. Instead, stay cool at your local City Pool!
DIVISION OF EMS
Heat Emergencies
Heat-related emergencies occur when the body is unable to cool itself, often due to dehydration and exposure to hot, humid weather. The elderly, young children, and individuals with chronic medical conditions are especially at risk.
There are 3 types of heat emergencies:
- Heat cramps: Muscle cramps in the abdomen, arms, and legs that can be treated by stopping activity, moving to a cool location, and drinking fluids.
- Heat exhaustion: Characterized by weakness, headache, dizziness, and possible nausea or vomiting. Any of these symptoms should be treated by stopping activity, removing clothing, passively cooling the person, and providing fluids.
- Heat stroke: Medical emergency with symptoms similar to a stroke causing confusion, dizziness, slurred speech, seizures, and unresponsiveness. If this occurs, call 9-1-1 immediately and attempt to quickly cool the person.
Do your best to avoid becoming overheated. Wear loose clothing, stay in a cool location if possible, and drink plenty of fluids. Check in on the elderly and watch children closely. These emergencies can come on and progress quickly. If you see any signs of heat illness in yourself or others, be sure to stop activity and cool down.
DIVISION OF ANIMAL CARE & CONTROL
Pets and Firework
Loud noises from fireworks may cause pets to panic and run away. If your pet is fearful of fireworks, contact your veterinarian. They may be able to prescribe medication to reduce anxiety. If you have lost a pet in the City of Cleveland or a nearby area, call the main line at (216) 664-3069 to report details about your missing pet. The best way to prevent a lost pet is to have them microchipped. Call (216) 664-3069 to set an appointment for microchipping at just $25.
Heat Safety for Pets
- Never leave your pet in a car unattended. In warmer weather, temperatures inside a vehicle can quickly reach deadly levels, even with the windows cracked.
- Keep pets indoors during extreme heat. Animals cannot sweat like people do. They rely on panting to cool down, which means they can overheat easily. Even with shade and water, pets can quickly suffer from heat exhaustion.
- When outdoors, make sure pets have access to water and shade and limit their time outside. Avoid letting pets walk on hot asphalt, it can burn their paws. If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
- Watch for signs of heat stress: increased thirst, excessive panting, thick saliva, or unresponsiveness. If your pet shows signs of heat exhaustion, seek veterinary care immediately. While traveling to the veterinarian, apply rubbing alcohol to their paw pads and use cold, wet towels on their body to help cool them down.
The City of Cleveland and the Department of Public Safety are working around the clock to ensure a safe holiday for all visitors and residents. These efforts are part of Mayor Bibb’s Summer Safety Plan, a comprehensive, All-of-Government approach utilizing data, technology, and community engagement to proactively enhance safety across the City.
Citizens are encouraged to contact law enforcement to report illegal or suspicious activity. If you have information that may assist investigators in apprehending wanted individuals or wish to report criminal activity, please call 9-1-1 in an emergency or (216) 621-1234 (non-emergency).
