Pointers for a hassle-free Fourth of July

The tens of thousands of revelers expected to descend upon the Lake Tahoe Basin for the Fourth of July holiday this weekend have inspired a flurry of reminders, warnings and recommendations from Lake Tahoe Basin agencies this week.

The primary reminder is that possession of fireworks of any kind is illegal in the basin. Most fireworks violations are misdemeanors, punishable by a minimum $500 fine and/or a year in the county jail, according to South Lake Tahoe Police.

In Douglas County, violators of the fireworks ordinance face fines of up to $1,000 and/or confinement in the county jail for up to six months, according to a release from the sheriff's office.

Other reminders and recommendations issued for the holiday:

• The weekend is a maximum enforcement period for the California Highway Patrol, meaning all available officers will be on patrol, according to a statement from the CHP.

• As usual for the Fourth of July, an alcohol ban will be in effect on Nevada Beach, at Zephyr Cove Resort and Zephyr Shoals, according to a statement from the Forest Service. The possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages at Nevada Beach is punishable by a fine up to $1,000, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

• Heavy congestion in the areas of Nevada Beach, Round Hill, Zephyr Cove, lower Kingsbury Grade and the casino core are expected. Lower Lake Parkway may be closed to ingress traffic after the fireworks display if the volume of traffic dictates the need for such a closure. Motorists are cautioned to anticipate delays while traveling in these areas, according to the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

• Campfires and charcoal barbecue grills are not permitted on Forest Service beaches or in the general forest, according to a statement from the Forest Service.

• Dogs are not allowed at Nevada, Pope, Baldwin, Meeks and William Kent beaches.

• Resist the urge to take your pets to fireworks displays. Make sure your pets are wearing identification tags so that if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Don't leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain, according to a public service advisory from El Dorado County.

If you know your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before the Fourth of July on ways to alleviate your pet's fear and anxiety during the Fourth. Don't leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain, according to a public service advisory from El Dorado County.