Houston officials advise Freedom Over Texas participants to prepare for heat – Houston Public Media

Richard Carson//City of Houston Office of Special Events

Houston’s top public safety officials joined Mayor John Whitmire Wednesday morning to discuss safety and precautions for the July 4 Freedom Over Texas rally, hosted by Shell Oil at Eleanor Tinsley Park starting at 4 p.m.

“Tomorrow we will see another real-world example of the excitement that comes with being a Houstonian, where we come together for quality entertainment and hospitality,” Whitmire said. “But the reason we are speaking publicly this morning is to emphasize the safety factor.”

Whitmire reminded everyone that temperatures will be warm tomorrow and urged people to be prepared.

“The weather forecast is for temperatures of 43 to 45 degrees Celsius because of the concentration and density of people (gathering for the events),” Whitmire said. “Stay hydrated, dress appropriately and think, think before you act.”

Interim HPD Chief Larry Satterwhite warned of the dangers of “celebration gunfire” in Houston: “There is no such thing as celebratory gunfire. When you shoot in the air, bullets fall. It is incredibly dangerous, do not try to celebrate by shooting your firearm in the air or anywhere else. It is against the law; we will prosecute you for it.”

Satterwhite said a bullet that hits the ground can be deadly if it hits someone. He asked the public to report any gunshots heard during the Fourth of July.

Houston Fire Chief Samuel Pena spoke about the dangers of personal fireworks, which are illegal within city limits, and pool safety during the holidays.

“Shell’s Freedom Over Texas is a great event, organized by professionals. We encourage our community to seek out these professional events. Please refrain from using fireworks. We remind you that it is illegal to set off fireworks within city limits. The fine can range from $500 to $2,000 if caught.”

Pena also urges parents to keep a close eye on their children around water this holiday weekend. He recommends designating an adult to supervise children in the pool or at the lake. He said drowning is a silent act and HFD has already responded to numerous near-drownings this year.