As Independence Day approaches, the Tempe Police Department is heightening its vigilance to deter the use of illegal fireworks, urging residents to comply with the city's strict regulations. According to a recent announcement, the law enforcement will bolster its presence on July 4, focusing on eradicating usage of fireworks that has been deemed unlawful by the city.
The crackdown comes amid concerns over the risks that unsanctioned pyrotechnics pose to public safety, including potential fires and adverse effects on individuals with health sensitivities, such as veterans, autistic individuals, and asthma sufferers, the celebration also represents one of the busiest days for pet rescues due to panicked animals fleeing the cacophony. The city has, received various complaints about the prohibited activity which has led to the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy, mandating a civil penalty of $1,000 against violators, and the city is poised to recover costs linked to emergency responses prompted by the illegal deployment of fireworks.
Residents can take an active role in curbing the illegal activity by reporting violations to the hotline at 480-350-8311. While some consumer fireworks are allowed—the kind that do not ascend or explode, such as sparklers—the use of Roman candles, firecrackers, and bottle rockets without an appropriate permit issued by Tempe Fire Medical Rescue is prohibited; Despite the presence in stores, not all fireworks for sale are approved for use in Tempe, newcomers to the holiday might see these items on shelves and mistake their availability for legality.
Anyone unsure about what is permissible should refrain from purchasing or using fireworks until they verify the city's requirements. For questions about what's permissible, the Tempe Police Department encourages residents to call their non-emergency number at 480-350-8311 to avoid unintentionally running afoul of local laws, and a general principle—if there's doubt about the legality of a firework, don't light it.
