By Andrea Pettes
 
July 2, 2009
 
MEDFORD, Ore. - The city of Ashland is getting ready for their 4th of July celebration.
 
It is reminding people to keep their blankets and chairs off the parade route until Saturday morning at 6 a.m. Spot markers should not block sidewalks and should be weighted to prevent them from blowing out of place.
 
The parade starts at 10:15 a.m. Saturday morning.
 
For a list of 4th of July weekend events throughout the Rogue Valley click here.  
 
Meanwhile, whether you are hitting the roads or waterways, patrols will be out in full force this holiday weekend.
 
Law enforcement officials will be heavily patrolling Highways 62, 140, and Interstate 5.
 
If you are questioned on the water, marine patrols say after dealing with your initial infraction you can expect to also receive an entire safety check on your boat.
 
Meanwhile, police are also reminding people about fireworks laws.
 
In Medford fireworks are prohibited in :
 
- Hazardous wildfire areas
- The Bear Creek Greenway
- Any city park
- Any public school
 
Only Oregon legal consumer fireworks are allowed within city limits. That means fireworks have to be ones that do not explode, do not fly into the air, and do not travel from their ignition point more than 12 inches vertically or six feet horizontally. Anyone violating Oregon fireworks laws may face a $500 penalty.