NYPD: Expect Tight Security, DWI Patrols, Illegal Fireworks Seizures on July 4th Weekend

New Yorkers will see heavy police presence across the city over the holiday weekend, many in helmets and vests and armed with long guns, officials say. 

A new critical response team, specially trained K9s that can detect explosives, radiation detection units will be deployed, along with choppers in the air and boats on the water, according to NYPD officials. 

Plainclothes and uniformed officers, including the 1,257 recruits who just graduated will all be out in force. 

They'll all be protecting the more than 3 million people who will flock toward the East River to enjoy the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks show, whether along the piers, in their neighborhoods, or on rooftops. 

"We will very significantly enhance police presence in the city not because of any threat directed against this event -- there are no specific threats that we are aware of at this time -- but the fact that we can put out an enhanced presence," said NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton at a news conference discussing security measures for the July 4th celebrations. 

"We would be able to respond if something occurred," he added, referring to potential teror threats, "but we are not anticipating that. But we are prepared for it." 

Bratton also warned residents that there will also be nearly 100 police teams canvassing the city specifically for anyone with illegal fireworks.

"If you light them up, there's a good chance that you may even get locked up," he said. 

Police will also be conducting DWI patrols, with checkpoints in all boroughs and additional highway units looking for drunk drivers.

"July 4th is about freedom, it's about inclusion, it's about society for everyone, every faith -- this is exactly what terrorists are trying to undermine," Mayor Bill de Blasio said at thew news conference. "July 4th will put those values on display so its very important for people to proudly express our values that day."

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