By Y.M. Lowy

If you hear loud cannon blasts coming from the direction of Fort Hamilton over the next two weeks, there’s no cause for alarm.

Ceremonial cannon firings are scheduled to take place at Fort Hamilton in Bay Ridge on several dates as part of preparations for the International Naval Review 250 and the nationwide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of American independence. 

The firings are scheduled for:

● Wednesday, June 24, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

● Tuesday, June 30, between 4:15 p.m. and 4:45 p.m.

● Wednesday, July 1, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

● Shabbos, July 4, between 9:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m., and again between 11 a.m. and noon.

Residents in nearby areas may hear the cannon reports during those times.

The ceremonial firings are believed to be connected to the larger maritime celebration planned for New York Harbor this summer. Unlike previous years, Fleet Week is not taking place during Memorial Day weekend. Instead, events have been moved to early July as part of the national America 250 celebration.

The special event, known as Sail4th 250, is expected to bring naval vessels, tall ships, military displays, and other patriotic events to New York Harbor from July 3 through July 8 as the nation marks its 250th birthday.