CMPD Amps July 4th DWI Enforcement, Issue Fireworks Warning

CHARLOTTE, NC — Charlotte police issued warnings Wednesday about fireworks and ramped up efforts to catch impaired drivers on metro streets this long July 4th holiday weekend.

"When you think about the 4th of July, it's a time to celebrate, be with our friends and family, celebrate fireworks," said Sgt. John Reibold, supervisor for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's DWI Task Force. "However, this holiday in particular has consistently been a time that produces one of the highest number of impaired driving related crashes, fatalities and DWI cases."

Out of the most recent five fatal car crashes in the metro area, for example, three have been alcohol related, Reibold said. Already this year, at least 12 people have died in alcohol-related crashes, he added.

Police expect this year's July 4th holiday, with a return to annual festivities and fireworks displays, will lead to more impaired drivers on metro roadways. That means drivers should expect to see more law enforcement in the coming days.

Drivers should make a plan before celebrations begin, and if you do drink, have a designated driver, Reibold said. If a designated driver is not an option, consider using a ride-share service, such as Uber or Lyft.

SEE ALSO: 4th Of July Fireworks Laws: What’s Legal In North Carolina

CMPD also urged residents to stick with legal fireworks.

"The only legal fireworks in North Carolina are the snake, the glow worms, the sparklers, the party poppers — things of that nature. Things that don't explode," Lt. Steve Fischbach, CMPD spokesperson, said. "In North Carolina, your firecrackers, roman candles, your bottle rockets, things that are projected into the air and then explode are illegal."

And for residents who are annoyed by festivities and call in to report illegal fireworks, police urge patience when it comes to when police are able to respond.

Crimes in progress and those of a violent nature will take priority over answering noise disturbance and fireworks calls, Fischbach said.

"We also want to discourage anyone from doing celebratory gunshots. That's not just July 4th — that's anytime," Fischbach said. "What we all have to remember is, when you fire that round up in the air, that projectile has to come down somewhere."

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