Four Tips for a Safe Fourth of July in the Smokies

Contact: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

GATLINBURG, Tenn. - As America celebrates its 250th birthday this July 4, Great Smoky Mountains National Park anticipates increased visitation for the holiday weekend. Anyone planning on celebrating America's 250th anniversary in the Smokies should prepare for warm weather, increased traffic and busy parking lots. Plan ahead and follow these four tips for a fun and safe Fourth of July weekend:

1. Prepare for a warm weekend

The park usually reaches the high 80s-or higher-this time of the year with high humidity. Whether you're picnicking, hiking or taking a scenic drive, plan for high temperatures. Take breaks often in the shade, wear sun protection and bring plenty of water. Drink water frequently and eat salty snacks to stay hydrated and fueled. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear sun protection. Hike safely by wearing shoes with traction, planning your hike and bringing the 10 essentials. Stay with your group, as cell service is limited in the park.

Your risk of heat-related illness increases with high humidity, high elevation and strenuous activity. Knowing the warning signs and acting early can prevent serious heat illness.

1. Travel safely through the Smokies

Roads throughout the park will likely be congested. Drive cautiously, always wear your seatbelt and follow posted speed limits. Expect delays in popular areas like Kuwohi and Cades Cove, and allow extra travel time.

Park in designated spaces only. Park rangers are responding to an increase in illegally parked vehicles. Vehicles pulled in the woods, parked on road shoulders or parked partially in the roadway can block emergency access and put visitors at risk.

Parking tags are not required July 3-5, but parking only in designated parking spaces is still required. The park may ticket or tow vehicles parked illegally if they are damaging resources or creating unsafe conditions. The park may ticket or tow vehicles parked illegally if they are damaging resources or creating unsafe conditions.

1. Be Bear Aware

Bears are active during the summer months. Whether you're camping, picnicking or hiking, store all food and scented items in a locked, hard-sided vehicle with windows rolled up. Never leave backpacks or coolers unattended. Pack out your trash until you reach a bear-resistant dumpster.

Visitors play a crucial role in their own safety and the well-being of our black bears. Feeding a bear, leaving food out, littering or approaching a bear too closely can contribute to a bear's death.

1. Leave fireworks at home

Watching fireworks is a favorite Independence Day tradition, but fireworks are strictly prohibited in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Fireworks pose a serious fire risk in the Smokies and can disturb wildlife. Instead, enjoy the red cardinals, white mountain laurel flowers and blue pipevine swallowtail butterflies of the mountains.

For more information to plan your visit, please visit www.nps.gov/grsm.