Heightened security throughout DC for Fourth of July festivities

WASHINGTON - Monday's Fourth of July celebrations in the nation's capital will be some of the biggest in the country which means locals and visitors can expect heightened security throughout the District all day long.

National Park Police will be out in force securing the National Mall and surrounding area. Officials say visitors can expect to be screened at all entrance points. All coolers, backpacks and packages are also subject to inspection.

Alcohol, grills, glass containers and personal fireworks are not allowed during the festivities. Also not allowed - tents that could possible block views of the fireworks.

Operating and flying unmanned drones will not be allowed during the celebrations and the National Park Police highly recommend that pets be left at home.

In addition to safety regulation, D.C.'s Police Chief Cathy Lanier said the majority of the city's police force will be on-duty tonight despite there being no known threat. "We have a pretty tight security plan for the 4th of July - with our partners - so it's nothing significant and nothing that should change the ability of people to come here and feel safe and still celebrate."

"We should pause to reflect on all of the government workers - but especially our public safety officials who are spending time away from their own families to keep our city safe," said D.C. Mayor Bower ahead of the celebrations.

Here is a complete list of prohibited items: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalmall4th/prohibited-items.htm

Safety procedures: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalmall4th/safety.htm

Complete fireworks schedule: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalmall4th/fireworks.htm