Security added to Pueblo West July 4th parade amidst safety concerns

Thousands of people lined the streets in Pueblo West Wednesday for the annual Fourth of July parade after almost being canceled.

With concerns after last year’s event quickly turned dangerous, security was increased.

Last year there were reports of frozen water balloons and water with bleach, but this year security did their best to stop it.

People often say there must be something in the water, but Micah Hodges believes last year there really was.

“I experienced nasty water,” Hodges said. “There was a lot of really hot and really, really icy water.”

Now added security, made up of volunteers and law enforcement is aiming to stop the horseplay.

“People just need to understand this is fun. They don’t need to be bringing frozen water balloons.” said Ramona Bellegante, who is part of the security team.

While the parade is meant for people to enjoy themselves, fear still lingers for a father of two, Karl Reul.

He says, “I’d be pretty upset if one of them got hit with a frozen water balloon.”

While not everyone experienced last year’s chaos first hand, they hope it stays in the past.