Tight Security Measures Proved Successful At Heat Parade
MIAMI (CBS4) - Folks got a bird's eye view of the heat parade while sitting 20 feet above Biscayne Blvd the frame of a train crossing signal.
While they had a good view it was a nightmare for police, trying to keep the crowd safe and secure.
"We had it fenced off but the individuals that climbed, found a way to get up there," said Miami Police Sgt. Freddie Cruz. "They wanted to get a good view. It was a bit of a challenge, we got them down. "
Despite some spirited crowds, there were no major incident and no arrests. Undercover officers were mingling in the crowds, while bomb sniffing dogs checked out bags and coolers. Nearly all were given the all clear.
There were some frightening moments when children got lost in the crowd -- but they were all reunited quickly.
The weather was a bit of a problem, with more than two dozen overcome by the warm temperatures.
One victim was a 12 year old boy.
"He hasn't had water and he fainted," said his cousin Yajaira Huggins.
But maybe the oddest scene downtown watching people with luggage in tow, pulling it through the trash and debris, trying to get to PortMiami to hop a cruise.
"We're dragging our bags" said Maria Santa Ana as she rushed for her cruise. It got difficult when her bag got stuck in garbage.
Many of these passengers got cabs to Biscayne and the 395 - then had no choice but to hoof it the rest of the way -- hoping not to miss the boat, but still excited about the Heat!
"Congratulations," she said. I wish they were here to take me to the port."
