Dunkirk Police Offer Safety Tips for Celebrating Independence Day

With the first holiday of the summer season approaching, the Dunkirk Police Department is reminding residents to keep some safety tips in mind when it comes to celebrating our nation's birthday. Police Chief Chris Witkowski says those who head out to the waterfront for the July 4th celebration should park in the city parking lots away from Lake Shore Drive in order to help alleviate traffic. He says some streets near the waterfront will have "no parking" signs on one side of street...

Chris Witkowski: no double-parking

Witkowski says there will be plenty of police officers and fire police in the area as it gets darker on Friday. He says vehicles traveling away from the waterfront will be diverted south onto Main Street and Brigham Road after the fireworks show is over...

Chris Witkowski: be slow and patient

And while fireworks can be a safe and enjoyable part of the holiday, police urge people to leave it up to the professionals. Witkowski says possession and use of dangerous fireworks is not only illegal, it can cause serious injuries...

Chris Witkowski: many people get illegal fireworks in Pennsylvania

Witkowski also urges parents to supervise their children with the use of sparklers; while legal during the holiday, they can still cause injury if not used properly. He reminds residents that in New York, any fireworks that can be shot in the air or explode are illegal to possess.