Looking to proactively calm the potential reactions of locals, city officials are reminding the public of the Happy 3rd of July event in New Orleans City Park which includes a massive display of loud fireworks that may, at times, be mistaken for gunshots.
“I want to assure the public that any loud bangs you hear this evening around 9 p.m. will totally be fireworks,” City Park Director Robert Perry said as he threw on his flak jacket. “…At least 75% of the time.”
The big event will feature patriotic music from The Marine Corps Band New Orleans on the Goldring/Woldenberg Great Lawn and expects to draw a large crowd. With criminal activity in the last few years on the rise in the area, safety has become a major concern among potential attendees.
“I understand the concern for safety but all anyone needs to worry about is getting a good seat,” Perry said, noting that Kevlar brand blankets will be available for rental (free).
“Look, The Marine Corps Band is performing. And for anyone thinking about shooting or brandishing a gun, you really may want to think twice about interrupting them or making them ‘remember things.'”
In anticipation of anyone who does not see the reminder about the fireworks, Perry said officials have already spoken with 9-1-1 operators and have instructed them to “not answer on the first ring” on the third and fourth of July.
“I think we’ve all got a little crime fatigue. And, you know, gunshots are really just another form of fireworks. So, maybe we can just appreciate the beauty of it all for a couple of days, you know?”