By The People’s Paper MS Staff
Magee, Miss. — Magee Police Chief Denis J. Borges says officers will increase patrols across the city during the Fourth of July holiday weekend as part of a safety push aimed at reducing crashes, impaired driving, and other preventable emergencies.
Independence Day is one of the busiest travel and celebration weekends of the year, and Borges said the department’s goal is simple: help residents enjoy the holiday and make it home safely.
“We do not play when it comes to impaired driving,” Borges said.
Police will be watching for speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, and seat belt violations. Borges said the increased presence is not about inconvenience, but prevention.
“We want everybody to enjoy the Fourth of July, make good memories, and get back home safely,” he said.
The department is also taking a zero-tolerance approach to drunk and drug-impaired driving. Officials are encouraging residents to plan ahead, use a designated driver, or arrange alternative transportation if they plan to drink.
Celebratory gunfire
Borges also issued a strong warning against celebratory gunfire, which remains illegal and dangerous.
“Shooting into the air to celebrate is not self-defense,” he said.
He added that officers will respond to and investigate all reports of illegal gunfire and violations will be enforced.
Fireworks laws and safety
Residents who plan to use fireworks are reminded that Mississippi law allows only approved, properly labeled consumer fireworks.
Borges cited Mississippi Code Annotated Sections 45-13-1 and 45-13-3, which govern legal fireworks use in the state.
He also pointed to Section 45-13-9, which makes it illegal to ignite or discharge fireworks within 600 feet of a church, hospital, or school, within 75 feet of where fireworks are stored or sold, or from, into, or at a motor vehicle.
He reminded residents that fireworks should never be modified or homemade.
“Only use commercially manufactured fireworks that are properly labeled,” Borges said. “Anything else creates serious safety risks and puts people in danger.”
Fireworks-related injuries and fires, he added, often pull first responders away from other emergencies.
Heat safety reminder
With summer temperatures rising, Borges also urged residents to use caution with children and pets.
Never leave them inside a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Interior temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
Traffic and public event safety
For those attending the city’s official fireworks celebration, police encourage residents to arrive early and park only in designated areas. Drivers are asked to keep intersections, fire hydrants, driveways, and business entrances clear for emergency vehicles.
Stay connected
For additional safety updates and tips throughout the holiday weekend, residents are encouraged to follow the Magee Police Department Facebook page.
