Security Tight For July 4th Holiday Celebrations

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Over the July 4th holiday, law enforcement across the country is on high alert after the FBI issued a terror threat warning.

Security at two of the areas largest fireworks displays on Saturday, the celebration on Ft. Lauderdale Beach and at Bayfront Park, is expected to be tight on July 4th.

While preps are underway for Independence Day celebrations across South Florida, behind the scenes, security plans are already set in place.

"People should be maybe not alarmed but be aware," said Security expert Wayne Black with Black & Associates.

"We go through extensive planning efforts. I don't go into the details of that of course but we meet regularly leading up to the event. Our police department monitors all of the security protocols to make sure they are aware of what's going on and everyone who comes again is safe and secure," said Max Sklar with Miami Beach Fire.

The FBI bulletin follows deadly attacks last week in Tunisia, Kuwait and France. Officials say ISIS has called on its followers to strike during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan which ends in mid-July. While U.S. officials say there are no credible threats nationwide, they aren't taking chances.

"It takes a lot for the FBI and the Joint Terrorist Task Force to come out that much and say to watch out. So they obviously have  some information," said Black.

Black says it's not a matter of "if" there will be an attack in the U.S. The question is when and where.

"The chances of a terror attack on the U.S. are 100 percent. I hope it won't be this weekend but it just keeps on coming," said Black.

Black said dozens of thwarted attacks across the country in recent weeks by ISIS extremists-- make the threat more real.

So far this year,there have already been 24 plots against western targets. That's up from 19 during all of last year.

"They're calling on ISIS followers here to take up arms," said Black. "Look at the recent arrests. All the upticks and arrests up North and terror arrests, so there's some activity happening."

Stepped up security and surveillance at local events are in place to prevent possible threats.

Officials said despite the call for violence, people should enjoy the holiday weekend but stay vigilant.

"I think they should go to the events. We have to live our lives. We can't let them win. We have to go to the events and live our lives and enjoy our freedom," said Black.

Law enforcement is asking everyone to stay alert. If you see something, say something.

Click here for a list of firework show locations.