Governor Hochul Offers Safety Tips for the Upcoming July 4th Holiday

 

Multi-Agency Effort to Remind New Yorkers of the Dangers of Fireworks with Injuries on the Rise

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ State Office of Fire Prevention and Control Recommends Prioritizing Fire Safety if Handling Legal Sparkling Devices; Agency Recommends New Yorkers Attend Public Fireworks Displays to Avoid Injury or Unwanted Fires

New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection and the New York State Department of Health Recommend Food and Water Safety Tips

 Governor Kathy Hochul today reminds New Yorkers that the July 4th weekend typically sees a rise in sparkling device and firework-related injuries. Food-borne illnesses and water accidents are also more prevalent during the holiday time. Three state agencies offer their expertise to remind of the dangers to make for a safer, more enjoyable time for all.

“July 4th is a special time to gather and spend time with your loved ones and friends,” Governor Hochul said. “While celebrating Independence Day, I encourage everyone to follow these tips and to enjoy the holiday weekend. Please stay safe from the preventable: stay away from dangerous fireworks, exercise caution around water and don’t let food poisoning ruin your weekend.”

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection, along with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Office of Fire Prevention and Control (OFPC) and the New York State Department of Health are reminding New Yorkers to keep safe while celebrating Independence Day. Every year thousands of people — most of them children, teens and young adults — are injured while using fireworks and sparkling devices, and most of these injuries happen in the weeks surrounding July 4th. Across the United States, at least 11 people died in incidents involving fireworks in 2022, and an estimated 10,200 people were injured, with the majority of them – 73 percent – occurring during the weeks before and after the July 4th holiday. A 2021 report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows a 25 percent increase in fireworks-related injuries between 2006 and 2021.

In New York State in 2021, there were 199 fireworks-related injury visits reported by emergency departments, with 142 of those visits reported between June 18 July 18. Additionally, 24 percent of the visits during that time period were by patients 18 years of age or under. Injuries to both children and adults include eye and ear damage, burns, puncture wounds, and permanent scarring.

Common causes of fireworks-related injuries are:

• A fast-fuse firecracker explodes before it can be thrown.
• A misguided rocket strikes a bystander.
• A curious youngster goes to investigate why a firecracker "failed" to explode.

While avoiding the use of illegal fireworks is the best way to prevent injury, the Department also recommends taking simple precautions while watching professional fireworks displays, including using earplugs to protect hearing, keeping a safe distance from the launch site, and leaving pets at home. If your pet is nervous around fireworks at home, please consult your veterinarian for ways to protect and comfort him or her.

FIREWORKS – WHAT’S LEGAL AND WHAT’S NOT IN NEW YORK STATE:

What’s Legal

• Sale of sparkling devices by registered sellers from June 1 until July 5 annually. Sparkling devices are ground-based or handheld sparking devices that produce a shower of colored sparks or colored flame, crackling or whistling noise and smoke. They do not launch into the air.
• Users must be 18 years or older to use sparkling devices.

What’s Not Legal:

• The possession and use of sparkling devices in cities with populations of more than one million people and where prohibited by local law. This includes New York City and the following counties: Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange (prohibited in the Cities of Middletown and Newburgh only), Queens, Richmond, Schenectady, Suffolk, Warren and Westchester. The list of counties that prohibit the sale and possession of sparkling devices is ever changing; for compliance, please check with your local county sheriff’s office.
• Fireworks including firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners, and aerial devices, are illegal statewide.

DCP and OFPC offered guidance to New Yorkers planning to use sparkling devices over the next week in celebration of the Fourth of July holiday:

• Children and sparklers are a dangerous combination. Never allow young children to play with or ignite sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never throw or point sparkling devices toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution or keep an approved fire extinguisher nearby during a display.
• Make sure the person lighting sparkling devices always wears eye protection.
• Light only one sparkling device at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
• Always use sparkling devices outdoors. Never light sparklers inside.
• Store sparkling devices in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
• If you are impaired by alcohol, don’t use sparkling devices.
• Always wear eye protection when using sparkling devices
• Purchase sparkling devices and novelty devices from New York State registered retailers only

Sales of sparkling devices by certified permanent and specialty retailers can only take place during the year from June 1 to July 5 and December 26 to January 2. Sales of sparkling devices by certified temporary stands or tents can only occur from June 20 to July 5 and December 26 to January 2.

A list of registered sparkling device vendors appears here.

OFPC also encourages parents and guardians to provide children and teens with non-flammable alternatives to sparkling devices, which can be easily found at most retail stores.

Suggested items include:

• Glow Sticks
• Pipe Cleaner “Sparklers”
• Fairy Lights
• LED Items

New York State Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez “The Fourth of July brings families and friends together to celebrate and enjoy the summer weather, but it is also one of the holidays with the highest number of accidents. When celebrating Independence Day this year, we encourage New Yorkers to understand which consumer fireworks are legal in New York State and how to use them safely.”

Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Sparkling devices and illegal fireworks cause injuries and start unwanted fires every year. Put safety first while celebrating the holiday and choose the safest and most spectacular option: leave it to the professionals and attend the nearest public fireworks display.”

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “A holiday celebration should not end with a trip to the emergency department. While it can be fun and entertaining to make noise and watch the colorful displays produced by fireworks, I encourage all New Yorkers to make the safe choice and enjoy professional public fireworks displays instead of putting themselves, their loves ones and friends, and their communities at risk with illegal personal fireworks.”

The New York State Department of Health also reminds New Yorkers of food safety and water safety during our summer and holiday time.

Food safety is also a key component to ensuring an enjoyable holiday and some proven food preparation routines can help prevent potentially serious illness or even death. Always wash hands after handling raw meat and before preparing or serving ready-to-eat food. Meat should be cooked to the proper temperature to avoid illness from germs such as E-coli and salmonella, which can be present in undercooked meats such as chicken and hamburger.

Hot outdoor temperatures can also impact the safety of perishable foods. Refrigerate perishable food within 2 hours. If the food is exposed to temperatures above 90°F, refrigerate it within 1 hour. The Department’s tips for food safety are available here and recommendations for those planning a barbecue are available here.

A day at the beach or in the pool can be a perfect way to enjoy summer and celebrate the holiday, as long as water safety is a priority. Each year, hundreds of New Yorkers drown or are hospitalized for severe injuries related to drowning. Some tips for safe swimming include never swimming alone, supervising children around water, avoiding drugs and alcohol while swimming, and learning basic swimming and water safety skills. Additional recommendations for water safety can be found here.

About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers on product safety, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.

About the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services provides leadership, coordination and support for efforts to prevent, protect against, prepare for, respond to, and recover from terrorism and other man-made and natural disasters, threats, fires and other emergencies. For more information, visit the DHSES Facebook page, follow @NYSDHSES on Twitter and Instagram, or visit dhses.ny.gov.

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE'S STATEMENT ON THE SUPREME COURT ENABLING DISCRIMINATION AGAINST LGBTQ+ INDIVIDUALS

 

 "A day after ignoring and exacerbating our country’s systems of discrimination with regards to race, the Court has further permitted and ingrained discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. This ruling is a dangerous, regressive attack on the LGBTQ+ community, one which places the right to discriminate over the rights to love, and to exist. 

"Freedoms of faith and speech are not an excuse for inflicting targeted harm on people who have faced sustained bigotry and violence by the mere fact of their identity. The Court has now permitted laws to be made based on religious extremism and otherism that only inflicts harm.

"As Pride Month comes to an end, the conservative attacks on LGBTQ+ communities continue in legislative chambers and courts across the country, up to the highest levels. With many in this country intent on stripping away rights and protections in the name of protecting the status quo, systems of oppression, and powers in place, historically marginalized groups must stand together to protect the cause of justice and all who are denied it."

RIKERS INMATE INDICTED FOR ARSON IN MASSIVE FIRE THAT INJURED A DOZEN PEOPLE AT JAIL

 

Defendant Allegedly Used Batteries and Wires to Ignite Furniture/Linens in Cell

 Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced that a Rikers Island inmate has been indicted for setting a large fire on Rikers Island that injured 12 detainees and Correction Officers with smoke inhalation.

 District Attorney Clark said, “The defendant allegedly started a blaze that sent thick smoke billowing through the jail, causing detainees and Correction Officers to suffer smoke inhalation, and putting dozens of lives at risk. Thankfully, first responders were able to put the fire out quickly to prevent further harm.”

 District Attorney Clark said Marvens Thomas, 30, was indicted on second-degree Arson, third-degree Arson, 29 counts of second-degree Assault, second-degree Criminal Mischief, fourth-degree Arson, third-degree Criminal Mischief, fifth-degree Arson, five counts of Obstructing Governmental Administration, Obstructing Firefighting Operations, 24 counts of third-degree Assault, and second-degree Reckless Endangerment before Bronx Supreme Court Justice Beth Beller. The defendant was remanded and is due back in court on September 13, 2023.

  According to the investigation, on April 6, 2023 at approximately 4:28 p.m., the defendant, who is awaiting trial for a Bronx stabbing and an Attempted Murder of a Correction Officer, allegedly started a fire in his cell in Housing Area 2A, North Infirmary Command, at Rikers Island. Thomas allegedly used stripped headphone wires and batteries from a tv remote control to create a heat source sparking the fire which started in his cell. The defendant allegedly lit linens on fire on a table and set fire to items on his bed. The flames consumed his cell, even melting plastic covering on the cell lights, and damaged adjacent cells.

 The fire created a hazardous, thick, dark smoke condition that spread throughout the second floor of North Infirmary Command. Five NYC Department of Correction Officers suffered smoke inhalation, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Seven detainees were treated for injuries connected to the fire. The defendant was burned when melted materials fell on him.

 District Attorney Clark thanked Correction Officer Ryan Gunning, who helped extinguish the fire. District Attorney Clark thanked FDNY Fire Marshals Brian Fealy and Tom Boland, and New York City Department of Correction Investigators Walter Holmes, Jeff Rios and John Cammisuli, and the New York City Department of Correction Intelligence Bureau for their work in the investigation.

An indictment is an accusatory instrument and not proof of a defendant’s guilt. 

MAYOR ADAMS’ STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT DECISIONS STRIKING BLOWS TO LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY, MILLIONS OF STUDENT LOAN BORROWERS

 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams released the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court today issued decisions in the cases 303 Creative LLC v. Elenis and Department of Education et al v. Brown et al:

“The Supreme Court again released two more decisions that take our country backwards and that prioritize politics over people. 

 

“On the last day of Pride Month, the Supreme Court’s decision undercuts decades of progress by weakening anti-discrimination protections for the LGBTQ+ community. As the city of Stonewall, with the nation’s strongest human rights laws, New York City will always stand with our LGBTQ+ community and be a safe haven to all.

 

“Additionally, the decision on student loans abandons student loan borrowers and only puts vulnerable students into further debt. One in six New Yorkers have outstanding student loan debt, and this decision will exacerbate economic inequities for our most vulnerable communities, including our veterans, Black and Brown communities, and low-income families. New York City remains committed to providing free services to advance the financial needs for all seeking help.”

 

The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection has Financial Empowerment Centers around New York City that provide free financial counseling services, including managing student loan debt. New Yorkers can learn more online.

 

The New York City Commission on Human Rights enforces and educates on the New York City Human Rights Law, one of the most robust civil rights laws in the nation. Under the New York City Human Rights Law, it is illegal to discriminate based on actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender. Learn more online.

AIR QUALITY HEALTH ADVISORY ISSUED FOR ADIRONDACKS, UPPER HUDSON VALLEY, LOWER HUDSON VALEY, NEW YORK CITY METRO, AND LONG ISLAND REGIONS FOR FINE PARTICULATE MATTER

 

In Effect for Saturday, July 1, 2023

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued an updated Air Quality Health Advisory for the Adirondack, Upper Hudson Valley, Lower Hudson Valley, New York City Metro, and Long Island regions for Saturday, July 1, 2023.

The pollutants of concern are:

• Fine Particulate Matter in the Adirondack, Upper and Lower Hudson Valley, New York City Metro, and Long Island regions
• Ozone in the Lower Hudson Valley region

The advisory will be in effect 12 a.m. through 11:59 p.m. 

 

DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern. 

 

OZONE 

 

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary sources of ground-level ozone and are the most serious air pollution problems in the northeast. This surface pollutant should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere. 

Ozone and PM2.5 are two different pollutants that form in different ways: PM2.5 is often produced directly as smoke from wildfires and other sources of small particles emitted into the air. Ozone is not a direct emission, and is produced indirectly when sunlight chemically reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from automobile exhaust and industrial emissions. High ozone isn’t as visible as PM2.5 because it’s a colorless gas, but it will produce hazy skies and reduce visibility in high concentrations.

The smoky and hazy sky in an otherwise mostly sunny, stagnant air mass in the New York City Metro region today is very conducive for ozone production. The wildfire smoke can enhance the ozone production, but it’s not the primary component.

People, especially young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma) should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening). When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce your exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing should consider consulting their doctor. 

 

Ozone levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized during daylight hours by curtailment of automobile travel and the use of public transportation where available. 

FINE PARTICULATE MATTER

Fine particulate matter consists of tiny solid particles or liquid droplets in the air that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter. PM 2.5 can be made of many different types of particles and often come from processes that involve combustion (e.g. vehicle exhaust, power plants, and fires) and from chemical reactions in the atmosphere.

 

Exposure can cause short-term health effects such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. Exposure to elevated levels of fine particulate matter can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease. People with heart or breathing problems, and children and the elderly may be particularly sensitive to PM 2.5.

 

When outdoor levels are elevated, going indoors may reduce exposure. If there are significant indoor sources of PM 2.5 (tobacco, candle or incense smoke, or fumes from cooking) levels inside may not be lower than outside. Some ways to reduce exposure are to minimize outdoor and indoor sources and avoid strenuous activities in areas where fine particle concentrations are high.

 

New Yorkers also are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps:

• use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities;
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation.

Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC's website and on DOH's website (PM 2.5) / DOH's website (ozone).To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up to receive Air Quality Alerts through DEC Delivers: DEC's Premier Email Service.

 

The Saturday, July 1, Air Quality Health Advisory regions consists of: Adirondacks, which includes Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, northern Herkimer, Lewis, St. Lawrence, and Warren counties; Upper Hudson Valley which includes Albany, Columbia, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, and Washington  counties, Lower Hudson Valley, which includes Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Ulster, and Sullivan counties; New York City Metro, which includes New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties; and Long Island which includes Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Council Member Marjorie Velázquez - This Week in District 13

 

Dear Neighbor,

This past month has been exhilarating and full of excitement. From street co-naming installments to delivering hundreds of meals to community members in need, there is much to celebrate. As we head into the high season, I look forward to hosting several events perfect for the whole family, which you can find in our weekly email and social media. If there is an event you’d like to see come to life in your neighborhood, I encourage you to contact my office.

In this week’s email, you will find information, including NYC’s Summer Meals Program, youth and community resources, upcoming events, and more. I’m also excited to share that The New York Academy of Medicine (NYAM), is still accepting responses to their online survey, Aging Well in The Bronx. This is a great way for NYAM and the Office of Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson to learn more about the needs of the Bronx community to support older adults and people of all ages. If you’d like to participate, scroll to ‘Health Hub.’

To contact our office for additional information or concerns, please call us at  (718) 931-1721 or email us at District13@council.nyc.gov.

Wishing you all a safe and joyous weekend.

Sincerely,

Council Member Marjorie Velázquez

July 4 Holiday Office Hours

In observance of the Fourth of July, all government offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. We will reopen on Wednesday, July 5 during normal business hours. If you have an emergency, please call #911. For all other inquiries, call and leave a message at 718-931-1721 or email us at District13@council.nyc.gov.

Utility Work Advisory

Con Edison will be performing Electric Upgrade work in City Island (City Island Avenue and City Island Road) from July 5 to August 2, 2023, Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Please be advised there will be limited street parking, temporary lane closures, and noise during working hours.

Transportation Advisory

NYC Ferry

Beginning Saturday, July 2, NYC Ferry riders can reserve a spot on any weekend Rockaway trips to the beach from 9 AM to 2 PM and back from 3 PM to 8 PM. Reserved tickets cost $10 and are available for purchase up to two (2) weeks before the date of departure. It is recommended to plan and purchase your tickets early, as  most spots on each vessel are unreserved; riders paying a regular fare will be able to board as normal. Reserved tickets are available for purchase via the NYC Ferry App only for both Wall Street/Pier 11 and Sunset Park/Brooklyn Army departures.

MTA Service Updates

Due to station improvements, the MTA has announced a 24/7 bypass of the Westchester Square/E Tremont Avenue station on Pelham Bay Park-bound 6 trains through mid-July. Customers are advised to use the nearby Zerega Avenue or Middletown Road stations.

Travel Alternatives

• For service to Westchester Square/E Tremont Avenue station, take the 6 to Middletown Road and transfer to a Manhattan-bound 6 train.

• For service from Westchester Square/E Tremont Avenue station, take the 6 to Zerega Avenue and transfer to a Pelham Bay Park-bound 6 train.

Construction & Repair Advisories

Hutchinson River Parkway Bridge

The NYCDOT Division of Bridges will continue maintenance of the Hutchinson River Parkway Bridger over the Hutchinson River. As a result, two alternating, northbound lanes will be closed two weekend nights each week from Wednesday, July 5 to Friday, August 4, 2023 from 11 PM to 5 AM.

Closure of Entrance Ramp

The New York State Department of Transportation has announced an entrance ramp closure from eastbound Pelham Parkway to northbound Bruckner Expressway (I-95) until Thursday, June 29 at 5 PM. Motorists wanting access to the northbound Bruckner Expressway are advised to follow the posted detour signs on Pelham Parkway. This closure is necessary to facilitate work to enhance safety and mobility on the northbound Bruckner Expressway and northbound Hutchinson River Parkway in the Bronx.

Shore Road Bridge

The NYC Department of Transportation Division of Bridges will continue routine maintenance of the Shore Road Bridge over the Hutchinson River. As a result, single-lane closures will continue from Monday, July 3 to Friday, July 28, according to the below schedule. No work will take place on Tuesday, July 4. 

Single Lane Closures

• Northbound - 7 AM to 9 AM

• Northbound and Southbound - 9 AM to 1 PM

• Northbound and Southbound - 10 PM to 7 AM

No Parking

The NYC Department of Design and Construction has announced a ‘No Parking’ advisory for Pelham Parkway North Service Road between Eastchester Road and Bronx Park East and Pelham Bay Parkway Westbound Main Road between White Plains Road and Stillwell Avenue through July 28 from 7 AM to 4 PM. This restriction is necessary to facilitate ‘end of construction’ work and is a moving operation. 

The NYC Department of Design and Construction has announced a ‘No Parking’ advisory for Pelham Parkway North Service Road between Eastchester Road and Bronx Park East through July 28 from 7 AM to 4 PM. This restriction is necessary to facilitate ‘end of construction’ work and is a moving operation. 

Night-Time Lane Closures

The NYC Department of Design and Construction has announced a ‘Night-Time Lane Closure’ advisory on Pelham Parkway Eastbound Main Road between White Plains Road and Stillwell Avenue from now through July 28, from 9 PM to 5 AM. This restriction is necessary to facilitate roadway reconstruction and is a moving operation.

Bringing the MTA to You!

You asked, and we listened! The MTA Mobile Sales Van will be at 3033 Middletown Road from 1 PM to 3 PM on the fourth Friday of each month. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about your MetroCard, apply for a reduced fare rate, replace an expired or damaged card, and more.

Fire Safe E-Bike Trade-In

The Equitable Commute Project has announced that it has opened its application for its e-bike trade-in program, which supports delivery workers in trading in their old bikes or scooters and provides a grant for $1,500 off a UL-2849 certified e-bike, which is compliant with New York City’s new e-bike laws

Learn More

NYC Restaurant Week

New York City Tourism and Conventions has announced its plan for NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2023. This is an exciting time for our local eateries, attracting visitors and locals to hundreds of businesses during the summer while offering incredible value on multi-course dining. If you are interested in participating, please click below to register. If you have any questions in the meantime, email nycrestweek@nyctourism.com.

Register

Governor Hochul Announces Crackdown on Impaired Driving This July 4th Holiday

 

State Police and Local Law Enforcement to Conduct Special DWI Enforcement June 30 Through July

 Governor Hochul today announced the New York State Police will increase patrols to crack down on drunk, impaired and reckless driving over the July 4th holiday. This special enforcement period will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 30, 2023, and run through 3 a.m. on Wednesday, July 5, 2023.

“We want New Yorkers to have fun this holiday weekend, but they must do so responsibly,” Governor Hochul said. “State Police and local law enforcement agencies will once again be out in force on New York's roadways this holiday weekend and we have zero tolerance for drivers whose reckless actions endanger the lives of others and we will hold those who do so accountable.”

New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “The Fourth of July is known for its fun and fireworks, but New Yorkers should remember fun can turn fatal if you don’t make the right decision. Troopers will be out in force and highly visible this holiday weekend, on the lookout for impaired, drugged, and reckless drivers who put others’ lives in danger. Remember, put down the phone, drive sober, follow the rules of the road, and responsibly enjoy your time with family and friends.”

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “One of the great ways to celebrate your independence is never to get into a vehicle with an impaired driver or let a friend drive who is impaired. Let’s all honor our nation’s birthdate with common-sense steps to get to our destinations safely: make sure all passengers are properly secured, keep to the speed limit, avoid distractions like cell phone usage, and make a plan to stay, get a ride or have a designated driver if you will be drinking alcoholic beverages.”

During this enforcement period, drivers can expect to encounter sobriety checkpoints and DWI patrols. Troopers will also be looking for motorists who are using their phones and other electronic devices while behind the wheel. Drivers should also remember to “move over” for stopped emergency and hazard vehicles when they travel New York roadways.

Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles as part of the operation. The CITE vehicles allow Troopers to more easily identify motorists who are using handheld devices while driving. These vehicles blend in with everyday traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

During last year’s July 4th enforcement period, Troopers issued 11,873 total tickets, arrested 187 people for DWI and investigated 775 crashes, including two fatalities.

The July 4th initiative is partially funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC). The GTSC and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation remind motorists that their “Have a Plan” mobile app, is available for Apple, Droid and Windows smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi or rideshare service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and provides a way to report a suspected impaired driver. If you drive drunk or drugged, you not only put your life and the lives of others at risk, you could face arrest, jail time, and substantial fines and attorney fees. The average drinking and driving arrest costs up to $10,000.

Arrested drunk and drugged drivers face the loss of their driver’s license, higher insurance rates, and dozens of unanticipated expenses from attorney fees, fines and court costs, car towing and repairs, and lost time at work.

The New York State Police, and GTSC recommend these simple tips to prevent impaired driving:

• Plan a safe way home before the fun begins;
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver;
• If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation;
• Use your community’s sober ride program;
• If you suspect a driver is drunk or impaired on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement;
• If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE'S STATEMENT ON PUBLIC SAFETY SPENDING IN THE CITY BUDGET

 

"This administration constantly declares public safety to be its priority. In my State of the People Address, I made the case that a budget which cuts, rather than expands, city services, one that prioritizes spending on policing above all other efforts, would be a threat to public safety. That budget was just adopted. 

"Constant talk of cuts throughout this budget process obscured the fact that the NYPD has been more insulated than other agencies. In the same cycle, while Crisis Management System funding increased, a long-stalled youth mentorship program to prevent gun violence remains unimplemented, a gun violence plan promised for over a year remains unseen, and restorative services on Rikers remain underfunded. Even beyond that conception of what public safety is, lack of adequate investment in other areas will contribute to a long-term lack of sustainable safety in our streets. 

"The budget may be finalized, but the work is far from done – and I hope the administration will commit to supporting systems of true public safety moving forward."