The city of Chicago is warning revelers planning to attend next week’s Mexican Independence Day festivities to keep roads clear and refrain from drag racing and other illegal activity ahead of the Sept. 16 holiday, after last year’s celebrations were marred by two men getting shot and others being robbed and carjacked.

       The Office of Emergency Management and Communications said in a statement Wednesday that those commemorating the holiday this year must “be respectful of their neighbors and communities, as well as workers at critical facilities such as hospitals. They should also be mindful of first responders and emergency vehicles that are required to pass through areas where celebrations are occurring citywide.”

       “Car caravans that create a threat to public safety will not be tolerated,” spokesperson Mary May said in the statement. “We also remind everyone that drag racing and drifting are not only illegal, but dangerous. Anyone in violation of the ordinance will be held accountable.”