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9 Investigates uncovers safety changes coming to Red Hot and Boom

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. — The firework floats are in place and the stage is almost set for this year’s Red Hot and Boom celebration.

It’s the largest Fourth of July celebration in Central Florida, and this year, it’s expected to be the largest Red Hot and Boom to date.

“I think it's going to be pretty crazy here,” said Altamonte Springs resident Monica De la Cruz.

The crowds at Cranes Roost Park are expected to reach about 200,000 people, just three weeks after the largest mass shooting in U.S. history that happened 12 miles away.

9 Investigates learned the top concern is another 'lone wolf' or someone impersonating police to infiltrate the crowd.

“From the moment it happened in Orlando, Paris, Turkey, everything going on in this world it's very scary as a mom and a person,” said resident Elizabeth Guzman.

Homeland Security information obtained by Eyewitness News shows no known credible threat to Red Hot and Boom.

But mass gatherings are always considered a potential target for terror groups.

“You will see a large, large uniform presence, but also a lot of stuff behind the scenes,” said Rob Pelton of the Altamonte Springs Police Department.

The biggest change this year will be that the nearby Altamonte Springs mall will be closing its parking garages to help police focus efforts on the event.

“It is one less area that concealment could occur that doesn't need to be patrolled,” said Pelton.

Authorities are hoping that the large police presence will allow the crowd to focus on celebrating without fear.

“We can't stop having fun and enjoying our life, and we have to get out there,” said Guzman.

Officials said dispatchers will be listening for possible hoax or swatting calls this weekend.