Fireworks Canceled at Eureka, Six Flags

Eureka firefighters, emergency responders, city officials and Six Flags St. Louis managers met today and again discussed weather conditions. They decided the risk is too great, and have had to cancel all the actual scheduled fireworks.

A free family event still be held at in Eureka on July 4, starting at 7 p.m. It will be dedicated to military veterans throughout the community.

Activities will include free children’s games, a classic car show, vintage baseball exhibition and live music by Hollywood 5. The members will sell hot dogs, ice cream and soda for a nominal fee.

Families are welcome to bring blankets, lawn chairs, food, drinks and coolers. No glass bottles or animals (other than service animals) are permitted.

Elizabeth Gotway, public relations manager of , said that after careful consideration and discussions with the Eureka Fire Protection District, they, too made the decision to cancel the fireworks planned for Six Flags St. Louis on July 1 and July 4. "We apologize for the inconvenience, but given the extremely dry conditions, this is the right decision to ensure the safety and well being of our guests, employees and community," she stated.

Additionally, Monarch Fire Protection District managers suspended all fireworks display permits due to the extreme dry conditions.

Monarch's Fire Marshal Roger Herin, said he has been monitoring conditions for the past week, and that he hoped to wait until July 3 to make this decision. "Upon looking at the conditions today, and not seeing any relief between now and July 4th, I decided to go ahead and notify all parties so they may come up with alternate plans," he stated. "I regret having to make this decision, but feel it is the right thing to do given the conditions."

Chief Michael Wiegand and Chief Gregory Brown this afternoon issued the following joint advisory about the sale, use, display, manufacture and possession of fireworks:

As we approach the 4th of July holiday, the City of Eureka and the Eureka Fire Protection District would like to remind residents that the sale, use, display, and possession of any type of fireworks within the City of Eureka is explicitly prohibited by City Ordinance Section 15-14 Fireworks.

The use of fireworks can pose a risk of fire, property damage, and serious personal injury. This year is particularly dangerous as the current dry conditions in the City and surrounding region have left vegetation in the wooded areas, yards, and common grounds extremely susceptible to fire. It is important that all residents cooperate and adhere to this ordinance. Residents should also be mindful of cigarettes, matches, open burning and other sources of flame or fire, all of which pose an increased risk of starting fires in these conditions.

Due to the increased fire danger, Eureka Police Officers have been directed to take a “Zero Tolerance” stance with violations of the Fireworks Ordinance effective immediately. We encourage all residents to report violations observed. Enforcement action will be taken when possible and anyone found in violation of the Fireworks Ordinance will be issued a citation.

We ask for everyone’s cooperation and adherence to the Fireworks Ordinance in order to make this 4th of July holiday safe and enjoyable for all.