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(Des Moines, IA) -- Police departments around the metro area are preparing to enforce new regulations tomorrow during Fourth of July celebrations.
"We've been doing this for a while, so we kind of know what all comes with the Fourth of July holiday. We will just have our officers prepared, well-staffed, and ready to go," said Sergeant Trevor McGraw with the Ankeny Police Department.
McGraw said that the Ankeny Police Department isn't planning on increasing patrols over the holiday weekend, but they are prepared for anything should it come up. He says the department's biggest concerns are impaired driving and firework safety.
Under new regulations, fireworks can be shot off on private property during July 3rd and 4th. They cannot be shot off in public parks or streets.
"Encourage neighbors, that even though it's not illegal, still be a good neighbor, and that's kind of what it comes down to. Just make sure you're aware of what's going on and you're safe. We don't want any fires, we don't want any injuries from fireworks. We want everyone to enjoy the weekend, and we're going to try to facilitate as a police department as much as we can to make sure everything stays safe," said McGraw.
McGraw is encouraging people to have fun but also to be safe and be courteous of others.