Jacksonville Prepares for Spectacular 4th of July Fireworks Show!

Jacksonville Prepares for Spectacular 4th of July Fireworks Show!

As the Fourth of July approaches, Jacksonville gears up for a spectacular night of fireworks set against the backdrop of the St. Johns River. The main event is slated to kick off at 9 p.m. on July 4th, and it promises to be a sight to behold, even if attendees should be mindful of some important changes this year. The city’s sole official fireworks display will take place over the river, marking a shift from previous years that featured multiple shows throughout Jacksonville.

However, not all areas will be accessible for viewing. Due to ongoing construction, Riverfront Plaza will be off-limits, and parts of the Riverwalk will also close, particularly between the Main Street and Acosta bridges. These bridges will be closed to traffic from 8:45 to 10:30 p.m., meaning anyone planning to drive in that direction should take note of potential detours. Yet, fear not—viewers can still find excellent spots! The best places to catch the dazzling display include the Northbank Riverwalk from Fuller Warren Bridge to near Acosta Bridge and the Southbank Riverwalk from Friendship Fountain to the Duval County School Board building, as indicated by Jacksonville.com.

Safety First

While enjoying the festivities, safety should remain at the forefront, as highlighted by the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD). They remind the community of the significant risks that accompany fireworks, which tend to surge during the Fourth of July celebrations. Unfortunately, firework-related accidents ramp up during this holiday, and JFRD advises creating a designated area for lighting fireworks while ensuring onlookers maintain a safe distance. Improper disposal of used fireworks often leads to dumpster fires, so it’s wise to soak used items in water before tossing them out, reiterates News4Jax.

Consider these sobering statistics: the National Fire Protection Association has noted that over 9,000 injuries are treated in emergency rooms across the country during the Fourth of July festivities, with burns accounting for nearly half. Supervision is crucial, especially when it comes to sparklers, which are often mistakenly considered a safe option for children. JFRD encourages vigilance and care to prevent fires and injuries, including domestic ones that can arise when fireworks are shot off too close to homes.

Stay Informed and Prepared

As excitement builds, it’s important to remember the bigger picture. The safety risks associated with fireworks are not just anecdotal. According to Patch, in 2023 alone, a staggering 14,700 injuries were linked to fireworks, marking a notable increase from the previous year. Among these incidents, sparklers—often viewed as a harmless way for children to engage—led to about 1,700 emergency room visits.

To keep everyone safe, it’s wise to wear safety glasses when handling fireworks and have a bucket of water or a garden hose handy to extinguish any stray flames. Never ignite fireworks indoors or while under the influence, and always supervise children when they’re in proximity to any pyrotechnics.

This year’s fireworks show in Jacksonville is free to watch, but let’s ensure it remains a joyous occasion rather than a season of accidents. As we gather to celebrate with friends and family, let’s keep safety in mind. Remember, the ultimate goal is to have a good time and create unforgettable memories, not to set the neighborhood ablaze.

So mark your calendars, plan your viewing spots, and take those necessary precautions! Here’s to an exciting and safe Fourth of July celebration in Jacksonville!