Santa Cruz County ramping up on enforcements 4th of July weekend
Santa Cruz County is expecting a very busy weekend 4th of July weekend. With an increase in tourism and the high risk of fires, fire and law enforcement are increasing their staff. Locals say they’re on edge as well, hoping that no fires are started due to fireworks.
“I'm just a little nervous, I mean I have trust because everyone has been through it, they know how bad it can be so hopefully they're smart than doing that,” said Santa Cruz County resident, Kaylo Zubey.
Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Department PIO, Ashley Keehn, said, “We know that people have a lot of pent-up energy because of COVID, last year a lot of people weren't able to gather with their family and friends and this year they are.”
It’s the 4th of July, post-pandemic. Celebrations are returning, many of them are in Santa Cruz County.
“We’ll be expecting an influx of traffic from tourists that are coming over to enjoy the nice weather we have here in Santa Cruz especially since it's been warmer through the state of California,” said Santa Cruz CHP PIO, Alyssa Gutierrez.
Law enforcement will have a noticeable presence.
Impaired driving is one of the biggest concerns during the long holiday weekend.
“We had approximately 736 DUIs in 2020 and that was during the height of the pandemic. So to have that many during the height of the pandemic this year is expected to be very high."
Also, a high threat of fire.
San Mateo-Santa Cruz CalFire Unit Chief, Ian Larkin said, “One spark right now with our drought conditions, fuel moistures being so low could ignite a fire.”
Which has law enforcement and fire departments stepping up patrols.
“We’re anticipating to see more people this year. That's what we're staffed for and that's what we're reading for,” said Kheen.
The maximum enforcement began Friday, July 2, 2020, at 6:01 p.m. and ends on Monday, July 5, 2021, at 11:59 p.m.