FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Fayetteville emergency personnel are planning ahead, as around 35,000 people are expected to attend the NWA Pride Celebration on June 29.
The Fayetteville Police Department (FPD) told 5NEWS they will have full staffing in the area, along with firefighters and paramedics to ensure the celebration is safe and secure.
“They're expecting tens of thousands of people, which is amazing, but that is a lot of people within our entertainment district,” said Cpl. Natalie Eucce. “Our officers will be very present throughout the entire area, and we'll have yellow traffic vests on, so if you have a problem, find us, find a firefighter, or find a paramedic.”
When it comes to safety, one of the biggest concerns is heat. The department encourages everyone to stay hydrated and try to find shade during outdoor events like the parade.
“It is going to be very hot, so make sure that you stay hydrated when you get there,” Eucce said. “Look around for where you can go for shade [and] where you can go for water as the event progresses because it's a very long event. It's a lot of fun, but we don't want anyone to get dehydrated.”
Police also suggest allowing extra time to get to the celebration, as most people will have to park further away from the event than usual due to road closures.
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