CLEARLAKE, Calif. – With the city of Clearlake's Independence Day celebration set for Saturday, the Clearlake Police Department is advising residents and visitor of precautions and rules to follow to keep the day safe and entertaining.

The day's events will include the Redbud Parade at 11 a.m., which leads from Redbud Park to Austin Park, where additional festivities are planned including a car show, the International Worm Races, vendors and other entertainment.

In the evening there will be a permitted fireworks show, set to begin at dusk, with police reporting that it's expected to be dark at around 8:40 p.m. Police urge people to give themselves plenty of time to arrive at the park to observe the show, taking into account limited parking and walking distances.    

Lt. Tim Celli of the Clearlake Police Department said the agency wants everyone to have fun and enjoy the holiday festivities in a safe responsible manner, and so he offered the following information.

Motorists are asked to use particular caution while driving, as there is anticipated to be an influx of visitors for the festivities.

There also will be added traffic enforcement throughout the event. Police ask the public to be mindful of speed limits, to watch for pedestrians and bicyclists and, if you’re going to consume alcohol, be responsible and do not drink and drive.

Also, citizens who are going to enjoy the city's parks should observe ordinances which are posted at park entrances.

A few reminders of important ordinances are as follows:

– There are no alcoholic beverages allowed in city parks. The only exception to this will be at Austin Park and only by the permitted vendor with an authorized wrist band.

– Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash.

– There are no glass containers allowed inside the park.

– There is no smoking inside the park area.

– Speed limits in parks are limited to 5 miles per hour.

– Nonpermitted fireworks are not allowed in the city of Clearlake. The county is still experiencing drought and the city is surrounded by extreme fire danger areas. Please do not risk the safety of others for a few thrills.

Other city ordinances can be found at the city of Clearlake Web site at www.clearlake.ca.us .