NATCHEZ — Streaming red, white and blue fire in the sky is expected to dazzle eyes on the bluff at the Fourth of July fireworks show set for Thursday.

Natchez Tourism Director Connie Taunton said the fireworks show will start shortly after dark. The prime viewing spot, she said, will be on the bluff.

“It’s not very often you get to watch fireworks over the mighty Mississippi,” she said. “What a beautiful sight. It’s a good time for people to get out with their families and participate in this wonderful freedom we have.”

Plenty of fun is sure to be planned for Independence Day, and local law enforcement officials say they will be out making sure local patriotic revelers keep it safe.

Shooting fireworks inside Natchez city limits is illegal, Natchez Police Detective Jerry Ford said. NPD, he said, encourages city residents to get their fireworks fix at the bluff fireworks show safely created by professionals.

Police will also be on the lookout for city residents illegally shooting guns into the air on the Fourth, which Ford said has been a problem for police in the past.

“Normally, around the Fourth of July or Christmas, people like to discharge their firearms into the air to celebrate,” he said. “But people should know that we will be out looking for that, and they will be arrested and taken to jail.”

Adams County Sheriff Chuck Mayfield said he will have extra deputies out during the festivities on the lookout for drunk drivers and other safety hazards.

“The best thing for you to do is have a designated driver or drink at your house,” Mayfield said. “We will have a lot of DUI enforcement, and it won’t just be us, it will be all agencies.”

The Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office will also have extra deputies on patrol actively looking for drunk or speeding drivers, Chief Deputy David Hedrick said.

State fire marshals are warning against unsafe use of fireworks, especially in dry or wooded areas.

If you do choose to ignite fireworks yourself, please follow these tips to ensure safe enjoyment:

4Read and follow the label directions carefully, and shoot fireworks only with adult supervision.

4Have a garden hose or water bucket nearby for medical emergencies and/or to douse spent or misfired fireworks.

4Fireworks should be placed on a hard, smooth surface prior to ignition. Do not hold fireworks in hand to light them.

4Quickly light one firework at a time, and move away quickly after lighting.

4Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, cars or buildings

4Keep fireworks away from small children.

4Do not alter or make your own fireworks.

4After displays, never pick up fireworks that may be left over.