As we approach the busy Independence Day holiday, we remind community members to pay extra attention to safety precautions, have patience and plan ahead to ensure the safety of residents and guests.

Call 9-1-1 in the event of an emergency. To contact public safety for non-emergent issues call (208) 529-1200.

To report a lost child or to seek help finding a lost child during the Independence Day Parade, public safety personnel will be on bikes throughout the parade route.  They will also be located at the Common Cents store at the intersection of Boulevard and Elm Street.

Public safety personnel will also be on bikes during the Mountain View Hospital Riverfest and Melaleuca Freedom Celebration at Snake River Landing and at the corner of Snake River Parkway and Event Center Drive. They will also be stationed on the east side of the river at South Tourist Park.   

We encourage the public to stay out of the river, canals and water features in and around Snake River Landing and the Greenbelt/River Walk. The waterways may look refreshing on a hot day, but there are many hidden dangers and water levels are high and fast right now. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent heat-related illnesses.  

These events are very popular and bring a significant amount of people and traffic to Idaho Falls. Even with the extensive event planning, staffing and accommodations by all entities involved, the public should expect traffic delays. Please have patience and plan accordingly. Traffic signage and plans are in place to ensure safe and coordinated entrance and exists from the events.  Please obey all signs and personnel directing traffic. 

Keep emergency vehicle lanes open to allow public safety personnel to respond quickly and safely. 

Due to the location of the fireworks launch site and Riverfest, the highly congested and grassy areas around Snake River Landing, and for the safety of persons attending the event, the Fire Marshal has restricted any and all personal fireworks, including sparklers, from Lochsa Drive, south to Sunnyside Drive, and from the Capital Avenue River Walk west to the Porter Canal. 

Be safe, have patience, plan ahead and have a wonderful Independence Day, Idaho Falls! 

For a schedule of Independence Day events in Idaho Falls, safety information and more, click HERE.

Media Contact: Kerry Hammon, Public Information Officer, (208) 612-8122, [email protected].