(NewsNation) — Americans are looking forward to big events Thursday night celebrating America’s 248th birthday, but cities across the country — and American bases around the world — are on alert.
July 4 event safety
New York City is expecting thousands of officers across multiple law enforcement agencies from the NYPD to Homeland Security to counterterrorism to patrol one of the biggest fireworks displays around the country.
Around 2 million spectators are expected to flood New York City for the Fourth of July spectacular. The NYPD says it’s going to have 6,000 officers on duty for the event.
New York leaders say there isn’t a credible threat at the moment, but nationwide police are concerned about so-called “lone wolf” attackers that may not be easy to anticipate.
The other threat to eventgoers is the weather. Washington, D.C., organizers are concerned about the expected heat and humidity, while San Francisco Bay Area officials are canceling events and imploring people not to set off fireworks because of the expected dry conditions.
If you’re heading to an event this holiday, be sure to stay aware of your surroundings and your hydration.
Worldwide caution
The heightened awareness at home comes as a May alert from the State Department to exercise “worldwide caution” is still in effect.
“The Department of State is aware of the increased potential for foreign terrorist organization-inspired violence against LGBTQI+ persons and events and advises U.S. citizens overseas to exercise increased caution,” the alert reads.
If you are traveling abroad, the State Department suggests enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so the government knows to contact you in an emergency.