GCPD urges safety, responsibility over Fourth of July weekend

GRUNDY CENTER – With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, community members are busy planning their festivities – whether it’s a barbecue, block party, camping trip, or just lighting off some celebratory fireworks. But whatever revelry the Fourth of July brings, the Grundy Center Police Department wants to urge citizens to practice safety and responsibility during their holiday fun.
“We anticipate it’s going to be a pretty busy weekend, with a lot of fireworks complaints, and everything else,” said Chief of Police Doug Frost. “But as long as people are getting permits and following city ordinances, there’s not going to be too many issues with that.”
Another focus during the holiday season is alcohol usage.
“We don’t anticipate a lot of drunk driving around here, but we’ll definitely be looking for it, because it still happens,” he said. “With an extended weekend and the nice weather, people are going to want to get out and celebrate, but a lot of people around here are really good about not driving after they’ve had anything to drink. We see a lot more people out camping and staying where they’re at instead of trying to drive home.”
“If you are drinking, it’s best to stay where you are, whether it’s camping or staying at a friend or family member’s house,” Frost advised. “And if you really have to travel, always have a driver lined up. Don’t get behind the wheel and hurt yourself, or someone else.”
Similar to Memorial Day weekend, the GCPD will be taking part in a STEP (Special Traffic Enforcement Program) to help promote safety – especially on the roadways – during the busy holiday weekend.
From July 1 to July 4, officers will be on patrol, cracking down on seatbelt and speed violations, drunk driving, and other public safety concerns.        
For the full story, see this week's Grundy Register.