Illegal Fireworks a High Priority for Police and Fire Officials

Salem Police And Fire are increasing enforcement this year. In general, illegal fireworks are those that explode, fly 12 inches into the air, or travel more than 6 feet on the ground.

Photo courtesy: www.cpsc.gov

(SALEM) - The Salem Police Department, along with the Salem Fire Department will be increasing their enforcement of illegal fireworks this Fourth of July holiday.

Salem police spokesman Lt. Bill Kohlmeyer says every year officers respond to numerous calls from citizens involving illegal fireworks.

"Many of these calls originate from citizens concerned about fire danger, noise violations, property damage, and potential injury," Kohlmeyer said.

"The illegal fireworks calls are all in addition to the normal calls for service our officers respond to, and interfere with their ability to deal with the domestic disturbances, fights, traffic crashes and crimes in progress," Kohlmeyer added.

Extra officers will be staffed July 4th to deal specifically with illegal fireworks calls. Citizens should be aware that in addition to losing their illegal and expensive fireworks they could, and likely will, face criminal charges and possible arrest.

Kohlmeyer said possessing illegal fireworks is a class B misdemeanor with a possible fine of up to $250.

Another area of concern is firearms safety. Each July 4th, officers respond to calls of shots being fired. These usually turn out to be people celebrating by firing guns into the air.

`Very dumb!" Kohlmeyer said.

The bullet has to come back down, and the potential is there for someone to be hit by the falling bullet.

It has happened before, and the consequences can be deadly.

Should you shoot a gun, you could face a number of serious criminal charges from Reckless Endangerment to Negligent Homicide.

Kohlmeyer said the department doesn`t want to dampen the enthusiasm the 4th of July brings, but they do want the community to have a safe and legal celebration.