APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) – Appleton officials are issuing reminders for residents about how to safely celebrate the 4th of July.
Smaller fireworks that don’t explode or leave the ground are legal in the City of Appleton, but Officer Meghan Cash says to remember no matter how fun they are – fireworks are not toys.
“Use common sense. Stay away from buildings when you’re using any kind of fireworks, have water handy, and just keep all safety aspects in mind when using those that are legal to use within the city,” Cash tells WTAQ News, “They’re very enjoyable, everyone loves to see a fireworks show. We want to make sure that we’re being safe and there are a limited amount of fireworks which you can use in the city that we encourage people to use in a safe way.”
Permits are required for larger fireworks, but Appleton safety officials still air warning to take precautions with anything involving fire.
“There’s a lot of things that can go wrong with shooting off fireworks within the city and so we’d prefer to people just choose not to do that…We just don’t want to have to see any kids or adults injured because of misuse,” Cash says, “There are obviously non-permit required fireworks. So that’s going to be your sparklers, stationary cones, fountains, snakes, smoke bombs, caps – all those little things that you do when you’re younger. There’s no age restriction on the sale, possession, or use of those devices. So those are legal in the city. However we encourage just some common sense on the age of children that are allowed to use those.”
Appleton Police haven’t seen a major increase in fireworks calls so far this year. There were some concerns over a potential rise as many local communities have canceled public displays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
But for people who do decide to put on their own fireworks show, they may have a conversation with police. While there are penalties, Cash says those talks aim more for an educational approach.
“There are penalties within the city for shooting off illegal fireworks. The violations can cost up to $1000 per violation – which that’s for each firework,” Cash says, “A lot of that is educational for us – to be able to say ‘Did you even know?’ Because oftentimes, people just don’t know.”
