COLUMBUS — Fireworks lit up the sky in downtown Columbus Monday for the Red, White & BOOM event: the largest firework show in the Midwest.
What You Need To Know
- The Red, White & BOOM 4th of July tradition returned for the 40th year in downtown Columbus
- City leaders laid out a detailed plan ahead of the event to ensure everyone's safety
- They increased law enforcement patrols and security monitoring for the event
But while the event was big as ever, safety was still a top priority, and city leaders had a plan in place to ensure that.
The city had officers visible on foot, bikes, horses, and in cruisers, as well as some in plain clothes. They also had officers patrolling neighborhoods that were ready to respond to any calls.
Mobile security cameras and watch towers were also in place, and for those in the crowd, law enforcement urged people to leave weapons at home and locked up.
With the recent rise in crime downtown, Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant said safety is more important than ever.
"Our officers ... they really stepped up, and when they took that oath to be a law enforcement officer, to protect and serve, they took that really seriously," said Chief Bryant. "They will be enforcing the laws. They won’t be down here, enjoying the fireworks with their family. They will be making sure you’re enjoying the fireworks with yours.”
There was also a Youth Zone and 5 Missing Children Booths at the event.