4th of July Safety Precautions, Free School Meals for Children and More!

July 3, 2025



 

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Dear Neighbor,

Although the legislative session is over, my work doesn't stop for our families. I hope you have a safe, fun and relaxing Independence Day. 

Because of inclement weather, the City of Norwalk is postponing tonight’s Independence Day Concert & Fireworks at Calf Pasture Beach. The even will now take place on  Saturday, July 5th.

Please read below for information on firework safety, two major bills signed into law, and more!

Environment Bill Signed Into Law

We are taking action to protect Connecticut’s environment. 
 
Governor Lamont signed major climate legislation into law on Tuesday, committing Connecticut to net-zero emissions by 2050, expanding clean energy incentives, and supporting green jobs. The law also strengthens climate resiliency and places restrictions on the use of rat poisons and a class of pesticides known as neonicotinoids.
 
I’m proud to stand with colleagues and advocates who fought for a cleaner, fairer future. This is a win for our environment, our economy, and our kids.

I had the honor of attending the bill signing ceremony earlier this week. For the past few years, I have worked with my colleagues to develop this bill - I specifically helped craft the sections concerning workforce development, business incentives, and clean economy planning. It was a great joy to see this bill officially make it over the finish line!

Fallen Hero Fund 

Connecticut stands united in honoring every fallen first responder. With the launch of the Fallen Hero Fund, we ensure their families receive the support and care they deserve.

4th of July Safety Tips 

Fireworks play a significant role in many 4th of July celebrations. However, they can also be incredibly dangerous when handled irresponsibly.

In order to help minimalize potential accidents, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has shared some guidelines: 

  • Keep a safe distance
  • Never relight duds
  • Always have water nearby

Please celebrate responsibly - protect yourself and others in the community. 

Click here to learn more. 

To ensure pet safety during fireworks, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping pets indoors, creating a safe and comfortable space, providing distractions and considering using calming aids.   

Always ensure pets have proper identification, like microchips, in case they get spooked and run away. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Create a Safe Space:

  • Familiar Items:
    Include familiar toys, blankets, and bedding in the safe space to provide comfort and a sense of security.
  • Indoor Confinement:
    Keep pets indoors during fireworks displays. Close windows and curtains to minimize noise and visual stimulation.
  • Safe Haven:
    Designate a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your pet can retreat. This could be a crate, a corner with their bed, or a room with minimal windows. 

Provide Distractions and Comfort:

  • Calming Music/TV: Play calming music, white noise, or turn on the TV to help mask the loud sounds of fireworks.
  • Treats and Toys: Offer puzzle toys or chew toys to keep your pet occupied and distracted.
  • Physical Comfort: Cuddle, pet, and talk to your pet in a calm, soothing voice to reassure them. 

Safety Measures:

  • Walks Earlier:
    Take dogs for walks earlier in the day before the fireworks start, as some pets may be too frightened to go out later.
  • Secure Identification:
    Ensure pets have proper ID tags and are microchipped with up-to-date information. This is crucial if they happen to escape.
  • Avoid Fireworks:
    Keep pets away from fireworks, sparklers, and any open flames. Pets may try to sniff or eat them, leading to injury or burns. 


Consider Calming Aids:

  • Anxiety Wraps: consider using a compression shirt like a ThunderShirt or a swaddling blanket to help reduce anxiety.
  • Pheromone Diffusers/Sprays: Feliway (for cats) or Adaptil (for dogs) can help reduce anxiety by mimicking calming pheromones. 

Aerial Cable Maintenance on Route 15 

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced that Aerial Cable Maintenance will be performed on Route 15 between Exits 40A-B & 44, 46 and 48 in Norwalk, Westport, Fairfield and Trumbull starting on Wednesday, July 9. This project is scheduled to be completed by Friday morning, July 11.

There will be a rolling roadblock on Route 15 between Exits 40A-B & 44, 46 and 48 during the duration of the project. Motorists are advised to maintain a safe speed when driving in this area.

Free Summer Lunches for Young Norwalk Residents 

Norwalk Public Schools’ Food Service Division has launched their annual Summer Meals Program. The program provides any child, 18 years of age and under, with free, nutritious meals, no questions asked. This summer, Norwalk is home to 10 open meal sites serving free breakfast and free lunch through mid-August. Children must eat the meals onsite, and no registration is required to receive a meal.

Click here for more information. 

Upcoming Library Events 

The Norwalk Public Library will hold several events over the next few weeks. If you want more information, click on the corresponding flyer or visit the Norwalk Public Library website. 

Westport Public Library also has a robust lineup of programing. Please visit their website to learn more. 

ICYMI

Survey for Norwalk Residents

Attention Norwalk residents and business owners - the City of Norwalk and Redevelopment Agency (RDA) have created a survey to gauge interest in developing a Business Improvement District (BID). A business improvement district could potentially increase resources and investment in downtown Norwalk.

Click here to access the survey. It should take about 10 minutes to complete. 
 

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with any questions and concerns you may have - I can be reached at Dominique.Johnson@cga.ct.gov, or through my office phone - 860-240-8585.

Sincerely,

Dominique Johnson
State Representative

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