SANDY, UTAH (ABC 4 News) – Sandy firefighters say if you set off illegal fireworks or set off fireworks in restricted areas you will be cited and face a $500 fine.
On Wednesday evening ABC 4 News rode with firefighters from station 34 as they canvassed neighborhoods looking for violators. During our hour long ride we saw plenty of people setting off fireworks – including aerials, but nothing was deemed illegal.
Firefighters and residents are concerned about what could happen if personal fireworks are used where they shouldn’t be. Steve Gibbons, who lives in Herriman, says he is concerned “with homes being lost” including his own. He says “in past years fireworks would be no problem, but it’s too dry to have them” this year.
Karen Cluff lives in Sandy. She is also worried about firework season. “Every day you hear about a fire starting somewhere. I think people are getting the message to be responsible.” However, she says there are some people who don’t get it. She says those are the ones she is worried about. Those are the ones that firefighters are looking for. And if they find them the punishment will be harsh. Sandy Fire Department Battalion Chief Chris Dawson says “We are not giving out warnings. If you’re breaking the law you will get a citation.”
