Authorities: Keep the Fourth by keeping safe

The celebration of Independence Day in Carson Valley includes a parade and two concerts, but the fireworks are at Lake Tahoe ... or should be.

Possession or discharge of fireworks by residents has long been banned in the county, along with the rest of the Sierra Front, for fear of wildfire.

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

The criminal penalties include a fine up to $1,000, a six-month jail term, along with the usual dangers that come along with amateur fireworks use.

"Please, do not risk life or property by the personal use or display of fireworks," Halsey said.

Fireworks aren't the only thing that will get someone into trouble over the holiday weekend.

Possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages at Nevada Beach is banned on the Fourth of July by Douglas County code.

The ordinance was designed to prevent the calls of drunken fights that used to plague the beach.

Sinces explaining the ban will be posted at the beach on the Fourth of July.

"The entrance, as well as the beach itself, will have a heavy presence of law enforcement personnel," Halsey said. "Any cooler, backpack, bag, purse or other container that reasonably could carry a vessel containing an alcoholic beverage is subject to inspection and or seizure anywhere inside Nevada Beach Park."

Because of the popularity of Lake Tahoe fireworks, Elks Point Road will be closed at Highway 50 at about 4:30 p.m. to anyone who does not have proof of residency or of a campsite.

Visitors should expect heavy traffic near Nevada Beach, Round Hill, Zephyr Cove, lower Kingsbury Grade and the Stateline Casino Core.

Halsey said the sheriff's office may make Lower Lake Parkway one way so fireworks watchers can make their way out of the area.

"Motorists are cautioned to anticipate delays while traveling in these areas," he said.

The U.S. Forest Service will be enforcing a no alcohol policy on July Fourth, between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight in the Zephyr Cove Beach Resort and Campground.

Halsey said designated areas for the possession and or consumption of alcoholic beverages will be established at locations at or near the resort. He said anyone found in possession of or consuming alcoholic beverages outside of these established areas on federal lands shall be subject to a fine not to exceed $5,000

"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," Halsey said. "A heavy law enforcement presence will be monitoring the celebrations throughout the Stateline Casino area, on Nevada Beach, and around the Zephyr Cove Resort areas."