City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Fire Department, Grand Rapids Police Department, and Kent County Animal Shelter Release Helpful Firework Tips Ahead of Independence Day
As Independence Day approaches, many Grand Rapidians may be preparing to celebrate the holiday with their friends and family. According to a press release that was sent out by the City of Grand Rapids on Wednesday, "a growing number of residents light consumer grade fireworks as part of their annual holiday celebrations." As a result, the City of Grand Rapids, the Grand Rapids Fire Department (GRFD), and the Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) have all sent out important legal/safety information ahead of July 4th. The Kent County Animal Shelter (KCAS) has also provided information about how pet owners can avoid losing and/or exacerbating stress in animals with firework anxiety.
In a press release that was sent out on Wednesday, the City of Grand Rapids and the Grand Rapids Police Department reminded residents that the City does have an ordinance in the books regulating the use of commercial-grade fireworks. For the Independence Day holiday, fireworks can only be set off between 11:00am and 11:45pm on Thursday, June 29 through Tuesday, July 4. Violations of this ordinance could result in a civil fine of $1,000.
The Grand Rapids Fire Department has also released a list of tips to encourage residents to practice caution while celebrating with fireworks (including reading instructions/warnings carefully, keeping a bucket of water nearby, maintaining an adequate distance from lit fireworks, and keeping fireworks away from children). The GRFD has also stated that it is very important to avoid "mix[ing] fireworks and alcohol." In Wednesday's press release, Fire Marshal Ric Dokter stated that:
"Our goal every year is to promote fireworks safety to ensure that not a single family in Grand Rapids suffers the pain and sorrow of a fireworks injury."
To see the GRFD's full list of safety tips, visit the City's website.
In addition to the press release from the City of Grand Rapids, the GRPD, and the GRFD, the Kent County Animal Shelter has also put out a list of tips to help pet owners deal with animals that experience firework anxiety. For example, the KCAS suggests that pet owners keep their animals inside to "prevent them from running away" and "to offer them comfort and reassurance." For more tips/information on how to deal with anxious pets, visit the KCAS's website.
City of Grand Rapids Announces 2023 Fireworks Show
The City of Grand Rapids has announced that the 2023 Grand Rapids Fireworks show (presented by Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort) will take place at Ah-Nab-Awen Park on Saturday, July 1. The event will begin at 6:00pm and feature food vendors and live music from DJ Rob Sparks and Pretty Rage. The fireworks show will begin at 10:30pm. According to City Manager Mark Washington:
"The City of Grand Rapids is proud to once again support the annual fireworks event downtown. Community events such as this add to our city's vibrancy. We are excited to be a part of this great community celebration that is free, accessible, and fun for all."
As this is a family-friendly event, things like alcohol, smoking, and weapons will not be permitted. Large coolers and bags are also not allowed and "are subject to search by security and the Grand Rapids Police Department."
For more information about the 2023 Grand Rapids Fireworks event, visit the Grand Rapids Fireworks website and/or the City's website.
Also in the News:
- The City of Grand Rapids has announced that City offices and the Grand Rapids Public Library will be closed on Tuesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. Emergency departments (GRPD, GRFD) will remain open, as will the City's pools and splash pads. Waste services will also be delayed next week.
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