As the smoke clears from the night of July 4th, the Forest Hill Police Department reminds us through their social media channels that while the urge to celebrate is strong, the city has clear rules against the use of personal fireworks within city limits. On the Forest Hill Police Department's Facebook page, a post stamped with the time and date of July 4th strictly states, "NO FIREWORKS. NO GUNFIRE." It continues to assert that fines for fireworks can reach up to $2,000 per offense and warns against celebratory gunfire, which is not only dangerous but also carries the threat of jail time.
The Forest Hill Police Department is adamant in their call to eschew personal displays, instead urging residents to enjoy one of the approved public fireworks shows. They have also provided a phone number for the public to report any illegal fireworks or gunfire, which is 817‑531-5250, reserving 911 strictly for emergencies only. The aim is to truly keep, maybe keep our neighborhoods safe for everyone during the festivities.
While public responses to the Forest Hill Police Department's post range from supportive to frustrated, the message is clear: The law is to be upheld for the safety of all. Ensuring these laws are followed goes beyond simply avoiding a fine; it's about protecting the fabric of the community, which is easily frayed by the unpredictable nature of rogue fireworks and stray bullets intent to, perhaps, unthinkingly cause harm. As we move beyond the holiday and into the rest of the summer, the hope is that citizens bear these regulations in mind, allowing for both celebration and safety to coexist.
