El Paso County Sheriff’s Office prepares for the Fourth of July holiday

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Law enforcement agencies in El Paso County are preparing for the 4th of July holiday.

In previous years, officials have seen anywhere between 5,000 to 10,000 people in the Red Sands area in Far East El Paso on Fourth of July night.

This year officials estimate between 15,000 to 18,000 people gather throughout Red Sands and the Horizon City desert areas.

Ryan Urrutia, a commander with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, told ABC-7 they are working to keep visitors and their families safe.

Urrutia said DUIs and underage drinking tend to increase during every holiday, including the Fourth of July.

Officials also know disagreements can break out between groups of people. As a result, there will be an increased presence in these areas on Independence Day.

Chief Jamil Moutran with the Texas Rescue Patrol said they are also prepared to handle these events.

Moutran said they work closely with the El Paso County Sheriff's Office during these holidays.

He said they have a fleet of vehicles available to help if visitors become injured.

Additionally, the agency helps people who have become lost in the area.

"So it is really important to make sure you do your homework before you venture off into those areas. Never travel into remote areas, take friends with you, always have a buddy with you before you venture into those areas, and always ensure you do your research," he said.