Austin police talk security at Pride Parade following recent mass shootings

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - With Austin's Pride Parade just around the corner, Austin police are increasing enforcement in order to make sure it goes off without a hitch. 

“There are concerns from citizens that are understandable based on what happened in those communities,” Assistant Chief Justin Newsom said.

Following the recent mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton, Ohio, Newsom said they are reviewing their enforcement plans for the weekend. 

“Unfortunately this day and age, events like that are not uncommon,” said Newsom.

APD will have officers both in the parade and behind the scenes. 

“You may see a SWAT truck in the parade that's not because there's a fear, we don't have any intelligence saying anything bad is going to happen here, it's just our SWAT team participates in the parade frequently,” said Newsom.

If something does happen, APD reports that you should make sure you have a plan. 

“First thing you should do is take an assessment of what's going on around you, see if people are running, does it continue, was it a one-time thing, there's a lot of stuff you need to think through ahead of time so that if it happens you'll be able to respond to that,” said Newsom.

If going in a group, Newsom recommends having a meet up point. 

“That way if you are separated and can't get a hold of each other then you know where to go so you can find your party,” said Newsom. 

Most of all, if you see something, say something. 

“Look for anything that may be out of place. Personal safety starts with vigilance. Vigilance is simply recognizing that there are things in the world that can hurt you,” said Newsom.

Attendees are also reminded to stay hydrated in the heat.

The parade is scheduled to start at 8 p.m.