Chapel Hill Police Warn Against Bonfires Ahead of Potential Celebration

Celebrating on Franklin Street has become a tradition after a big Tar Heel victory. But that tradition means more work for Chapel Hill’s finest, who close down the street for the celebration. And if Carolina wins the national championship, Monday night will be no exception.

Chapel Hill Police Chief Chris Blue said these events usually go off without many problems, but he is particularly concerned with one form of celebration.

“We are concerned about bonfires so we try very hard to keep flammables out of the celebration area. As you know, we don’t get all of them and invariable bonfires are set and people jump over those fires,” said Blue.

Blue said that along with alcohol-related incidents, fires present the biggest concern for medical staff.

“Every time we have a celebration that involves bonfires, people get hurt,” said Blue.

Blue said police would take measures to prevent the fires from starting in the first place.

“One of our number one priorities is minimizing the volume of combustible and flammable material that gets into the event,” said Blue.

Street crews also spray the street with water to lower the risk of fires.

Blue said they treat the Final Four like planning for two Halloweens, which attracts thousands to Franklin Street each October.

Blue said he appreciates the relationship between the police and those trying to celebrate.

“I think that spirit of cooperation and that kind of sense of community around these events, that’s unique,” said Blue. “You can look at post game celebrations in many communities and see that they don’t always go smoothly, and I’m knocking on wood, but in our community they generally go pretty smoothly. And I think that speaks to our long track record of responsible celebration and I look forward to keep that alive this year.”

Police shut down Franklin Street on Saturday night after UNC’s victory over Syracuse. Fans filled the intersection of Franklin and Columbia but a much bigger celebration can be expected if the Tar Heels win on Monday.