Wythe County urges safe celebrations for July 4 holiday

With major celebrations including Liberty at the Lake, Downtown Wytheville's Fourth of July Celebration and other community events expected to draw thousands of residents and visitors, increased traffic and outdoor activity are anticipated throughout the holiday weekend. County officials are encouraging everyone to plan ahead and take a few simple precautions before heading out to celebrate.

"The Fourth of July is a time for families, friends and communities to come together and celebrate," said Chuck Parnell, director of Wythe County Emergency Services. "Our emergency responders will be working throughout the holiday weekend, and we ask everyone to do their part. Slow down, make good decisions, watch out for one another, and don't take unnecessary risks. We want everyone to enjoy the holiday and get home safe."

Travel safety

Motorists should expect heavier traffic beginning before the holiday and continuing throughout Independence Day weekend, particularly along Interstate 77, Interstate 81 and major local roadways leading to festivals, parks and community events.

Travelers are encouraged to:

• Never drive impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• Buckle up and ensure every passenger is properly restrained.
• Eliminate distractions by putting away cell phones and other devices.
• Obey posted speed limits and allow extra travel time.
• Watch for pedestrians, cyclists and emergency vehicles.

Water safety

Whether spending time at Rural Retreat Lake, a neighborhood pool, or another waterway such as Reed Creek or the New River, visitors should make water safety a priority.

Remember to:

• Closely supervise children around water at all times.
• Wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating or participating in water activities.
• Never swim alone.
• Stay hydrated and take breaks from the heat.
• Never operate a boat or other watercraft while impaired.

Fireworks safety

Professional fireworks displays are planned across the region throughout the holiday weekend, including celebrations on July 3 and 4 in Wythe County. County officials encourage residents to enjoy these organized, professional displays whenever possible.

Under Virginia law, only fireworks approved as permissible consumer fireworks may be sold or used by the general public. Fireworks that explode, launch into the air, travel laterally or discharge projectiles are generally prohibited unless specifically authorized.

Residents choosing to use legal consumer fireworks should exercise caution and remember to:

• Keep fireworks out of the reach of children.
• Never relight malfunctioning fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
• Use fireworks only outdoors and away from homes, vehicles, dry grass and wooded areas.
• Soak used fireworks in water before placing them in the trash.

County officials also encourage residents and visitors to stay aware of weather conditions throughout the holiday. With hot temperatures expected, stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade when possible and watch for signs of heat-related illness. Even after recent rainfall, dry vegetation and summer heat can increase the risk of grass and brush fires. Anyone who sees an unattended fire or another emergency should call 911 immediately.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor official Wythe County communication channels for event updates, weather information and emergency notifications throughout the Independence Day holiday.