Crime & Safety
Manchester Fireworks Canceled, July 4 Festival Still On
Due to dry conditions and concerns of the fire marshal, the city of Manchester has rescheduled its July 4 fireworks display. However, a celebration with music is still taking place.
Safety concerns due to "drought" conditions have prompted the to cancel its July 4 fireworks display. The city will still hold a celebration with music and concessions on the Fourth of July at Manchester's . The fireworks show is rescheduled for August 3.
The decision comes at the request of the Fire Marshal Terry Deguentz.
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"It's just too great of a risk at this time," Deguentz tells Patch.
Deguentz said he reached out to the National Weather Service because they determine the risk factor based on relative humidity, wind speed and temperatures.
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"We are under the elevated fire risk," Deguentz explained. "Lack of rain and a prolonged period of temperatures in the nineties. So everything is really primed and ready to go."
Deguentz said based on the National Weather Service information and his experience, he is asking cities to hold off on displays. He is also asking to modify its display and remove and limit certain fireworks.
In addition to dry conditions at the areas where the displays are taking place, Deguentz said there are a lot of homes with wooden roofs near Schroeder Park. There is also the threat of sparks catching neighboring homes on fire.
"It didn't make much sense to allow the displays to happen," Deguentz said.
Missouri Governor Jay Nixon recently activated a State of Emergency Operations Center in response to the dry, hot weather.
"The Governor also ordered the Missouri National Guard to ready the assets and resources it would need to support firefighting operations in Missouri. This Missouri Division of Fire Safety is assisting with the coordination of resources," Nixon stated in a news release.
The Ralph Butler Band will still perform on July 4th from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at Manchester's Schroeder Park. The event details are below.
When: 6 p.m. July 4
Where: , 359 Old Meramec Station Rd.
Entertainment: Ralph Butler Band at 6 p.m.
Fireworks: POSTPONED UNTIL Aug. 3
Activities: Concessions available at the pool
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