New York City is amping up security this year for its New Year's Eve celebrations in Times Square.
The New York City Police Department has provided New Yorkers with a video to show the security measure being taken this year.
“This year is on track to be the safest on record thanks in large part to the men and women of the NYPD,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio.
According to the NYPD, people attending the celebrations will enter on Sixth or Eight Avenue and will pass through an explosive detection canine. They will then be searched with a magnetometer or hand wand.
Large bags and backpacks are prohibited from the venue, as well as umbrellas and alcohol. After arriving at the venue, attendees will be screened again.
It will be #NYPDprotecting #TimesSquare so feel safe & enjoy the world's best #NewYearsEve party.
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 31, 2017
Remember, it's a shared responsibility. Let us know if something looks suspicious.
Emergencies: 911
Terrorism hotline: 888-NYC-SAFE ([email protected])
Info on crimes: 800-577-TIPS pic.twitter.com/4c7XacH2iW
These extra security measure are due to the Times Square attack that occurred in early December. An unsuccessful suicide bomber planned to kill crowds of New Yorkers in Times Square, but police interceded and no one was killed. New York City endured a terrorist attack this fall when a truck took out several pedestrians on a walkway before he was stopped by onsite police officers.
Counting down to 2018 in #TimesSquare? As always, the party outside is free. You DON'T have to buy tickets. Tell one of the many police officers you'll see if someone offers to sell you tickets. #NewYearsEve pic.twitter.com/WZtF7cVNKW
— NYPD NEWS (@NYPDnews) December 31, 2017
“FDNY members will be standing shoulder to shoulder with the NYPD to make certain 2018 begins safely for all New Yorkers,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel A. Nigro.
The annual Times Square ball drop will be webcast live at 6 p.m. EST.
What goes up must come down. Get up and close to the star of the show @timessquareball with the #TimesSquare #NYE live webcast beginning at 6pm EST at https://t.co/Fsxoqv42Z9. #balldrop pic.twitter.com/Ag5ev4iqax
— Times Square (@TimesSquareNYC) December 31, 2017
Continuing with the theme of cold weather, NYC is expecting temperatures of -9 degrees Celsius and -14 C tonight with the wind chill.
“With dangerously low temperatures and wind chills forecast to be near zero around midnight in Times Square, make sure you bundle up and wear layers with hats, scarfs and gloves to stay warm as you enjoy the New Year’s Eve festivities," said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Joseph Esposito.
More than one million people are expected to attend the Ball Drop.
