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South Haven Police: ‘Zero tolerance’ policy for alcohol on the beach

Posted at 10:26 PM, Jun 30, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-30 22:28:20-04

SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. -- South Haven Police are instituting a zero tolerance policy for alcohol on the beach this Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Police expect more than 70,000 people to attend Sunday night's "Light up the Lakes" fireworks display, and there will be an increased law enforcement presence keeping an eye out for alcohol on the beach.

Officials say they won't be giving out warnings, only tickets and possible arrests for those who choose to break the rules.   The fines can range anywhere from $100 to $500.

"Alcohol has never been allowed, so we're just reminding people," said acting South Haven Police Chief Natalie Thompson.

Signs are being posted on the North Beach to remind people of the No Alcohol policy.  Police are also setting up fences at the beach to control access and monitor for alcohol.

South Haven's fireworks show is at 10:30 p.m. Sunday.  Police say the Dyckman Draw Bridge will be up at 11:30 and will stay up for hours to let boats off the lake.

Fireworks displays across West Michigan