Deputies ready for Fourth of July holiday celebration

Although record-high gas prices could prevent some people from celebrating this Fourth of July at Lake Tahoe, the Douglas County Sheriff's Office is still gearing up for what can be one of the year's rowdiest parties.

"Law enforcement has adopted a zero-tolerance enforcement approach for those individuals who choose to disrupt the festivities by drunkenness, quarreling, fighting or the possession or discharge of fireworks," sheriff spokesman Sgt. Jim Halsey said in a press release issued Monday. "A heavy law enforcement presence will be monitoring the celebrations throughout the casino core, on Nevada Beach and around the Zephyr Cove Resort areas."

Halsey said Douglas County specifically prohibits the possession or consumption of alcohol on Nevada Beach for the holiday.

"This county ordinance came about in order to reduce the many acts of drunkenness and violence associated with the use of alcohol experienced on the beach in past years," he said.

Alcohol is also prohibited on U.S. Forest Service land around Zephyr Cove Resort Beach and Campground, except in designated drinking areas.

Violations of either policy can result in fines of up to $5,000. Coolers, backpacks, bags, purses or other containers are subject to inspection and possible seizure.

With the Angora fire still fresh in their memory, the Sheriff's Office issued a stern warning about illegal fireworks.

"The possession and or discharge of fireworks in Douglas County is unlawful and will not be tolerated," said Halsey. "Those persons found in violation of the fireworks ordinance face criminal penalties, including fines of up to $1,000 and or confinement in the county jail for a period of up to six months."

Halsey said public fireworks displays have been approved by the county and should suffice to entertain.

"There are many community fireworks displays planned in our area in which you can take part without risk of criminal or civil penalties," he said.

Although gas prices are high, AAA Nevada expects some 400,000 Nevadans to travel 50 miles or more from their homes to celebrate the Fourth, about 3,200 fewer than last year.

"Less disposable cash and an overall increase in travel expenses have caused Nevadans to postpone or downsize their holiday getaways," said AAA Nevada spokesman Michael Geeser. "But while Nevadans are being cautious about their spending, most are not giving up their vacation plans."