ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Pete Pride's biggest weekend is just days away, and safety is top of mind as more than 200,000 people are expected to gather in the downtown area to participate in the festivities.
And there's good news: "No credible threat" has surfaced ahead of Pride, St. Petersburg Police Department Chief Anthony Holloway said Tuesday during a news conference. Holloway said the police department is checking in with the FBI on a daily basis to assess any potential dangers.
Holloway said paradegoers should expect to see a "full" police presence with uniformed officers, water and air support and surveillance. A license plate reader will be on hand, too, if it's needed.
The St. Pete police chief had some advice for everyone: "Come early."
RELATED: Your guide to St. Pete Pride 2024
That way, he says, you'll find a good parking spot and have plenty of time to participate in other activities and events before the parade. However, be careful if you're parking on Demens Island as access to the park closes at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 22, and won't open again until later that night.
Holloway also encouraged people to report anything suspicious or concerning. Don't be the person who "should have called" after something bad happens, he said.
St. Pete Pride president Dr. Byron Green-Calisch said parade organizers are also taking safety seriously at Pride. Wand metal detectors will be in place at parade entrances, and Green-Calisch said it's important to leave any weapons at home.
Another thing to leave home — the furry friends! With the heat of Florida in full swing, the pavement will be much too hot for pets' paws, Green-Calisch said.
Organizers said the parade plans to go ahead rain or shine.
"It's not a secret — it's warm outside," St. Pete Fire Captain Garth Swingle said as he encouraged people to take precautions.
Heat exhaustion is the fire department's primary concern for the parade.
"The best way to avoid getting overheated is to remain hydrated, especially when consuming alcohol," Swingle said.
The fire department said medical tents staffed with health care professionals and paramedics will be along the parade route should anyone need help. Each medical tent will have a cooling station for people to take a break from the heat.
"Anything from a Band-Aid to a catastrophic event," Swingle said. "Our goal is to ensure that everyone enjoys the weekend safely."
Your guide to St. Pete Pride
Florida's largest LGBTQ+ Pride celebration has been in full swing since June 1, and we've been your go-to for all the events. You can check out our Pride Guide by clicking or tapping here.
Ahead of the parade, you can check the guide for the route, best parking, street closures and more.
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