National Park Service Issues Fireworks Prohibition Reminder

Date: June 29, 2007
Contact: Outer Banks Group, [phone]

The July 4^th holiday is a time of festivity and the national parks are great places to celebrate our country’s independence …just leave the fireworks at home. The National Park Service would like to remind all park visitors that federal regulations prohibit the use and possession of fireworks anywhere within the boundaries of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial. This includes all Seashore beaches and the beaches in front of all Hatteras Island villages.

"The potential danger of injury associated with fireworks and possible wildland fires caused by the improper use of fireworks is a significant safety and resource concern for the parks and our neighboring communities," stated Superintendent Mike Murray. "Please enjoy the celebration of our country’s independence but refrain from the use of fireworks while in the national park units."

In 2007, Dare County Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance that took effect on June 1, 2007 which prohibits all fireworks on Hatteras Island. The Town of Nags Head, Town of Kill Devil Hills and Town of Manteo issue permits for professionally performed and scheduled firework displays within their jurisdictions.

The National Park Service has officially permitted the formal firework displays that are scheduled for July 4^th in the villages of Hatteras and Avon.

For more information, contact 252-473-2111 or Dare County Fire Marshal’s Office at 252-475-5750.