Community Corner

Shaker Heights to Hold 4th of July Fireworks Despite Dry Conditions

Some communities cancelled their events, but Shaker's will continue as planned

The 4th of July fireworks celebration will be held tonight as planned, despite largely dry conditions in the area.

Fire Chief Kevin Jacobs said the city considered a cancellation because dry conditions could have led to a fire, but Tuesday's rainfall made it easier to continue with original plans. The celebration begins after dusk at .

"We were looking at it all the time and evaluating it daily," Jacobs said. "We were out there (Monday) and it looked like it was effective.

"With (Tuesday's) rain and the forecast, we are confident that we're going to be able to put on a very safe event for our residents."

Fireworks in Shaker are set off in an isolated area behind a Shaker Boulevard bike path, across from the school. City officials were scheduled to meet with American Fireworks Tuesday for additional evaluation, but Jacobs said the rainfall eliminated the need for more discussion.

The Ohio Fire Marshal's Office recommended that cities evaluate their conditions to see if celebrations could be safe. As a result, some communities, , have canceled their celebrations.

"Everything was dried out, up until (Tuesday)," Jacobs said. "It's just like the boards on the freeways that say not to throw cigarettes out of your window … When grass is try, it doesn't take anything to ignite."

Because one day of rain doesn't wipe out all concerns, Jacobs hopes residents won't try to ignite any fireworks on their own.

"If you want the fireworks, enjoy the fireworks," he said. "Avoid doing anything at home.

"Leave it to the professionals."

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