Pocatello Police Watching for Illegal Fireworks

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Story Published: Jul 5, 2008 at 10:35 PM MDT

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 11:43 PM MDT

By Wes Horrocks

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Police agencies around Southeastern Idaho say last night was pretty typical for a holiday weekend. A few DUI's and fights, but in Pocatello they also found several people using illegal fireworks.

The night sky was dominated by firework displays across Southeastern Idaho last night, but Pocatello police officers were focused on finding people using illegal fireworks.

They relied on tips from residents, and found others by just watching the sky. Cpl. Thomas Williams said, "[We just] head that way and usually you can determine within a close proximity of where it came from, or if they're still out there shooting them."

And the extra patrols seemed to help. "We issued 29 illegal firework citations," said Williams.

Residents were cited for using legal fireworks in restricted areas, and for shooting-off illegal fireworks. Officers say the stands in town only sell legal fireworks, but people still find other ways to get illegal ones. Williams said, "A lot of people pick them up from out of state and bring them in. Shoot them off."

Fires are the biggest reason for this year's crackdown. This one near Clark Street was started by illegal fireworks yesterday afternoon.

Luckily no other fires were reported overnight, but since you can still use your fireworks until tomorrow officers hope everyone remembers to stay safe. "Make sure that they're lighting them in areas that are saying you can light fireworks. Have a hose ready. Make sure your'e being safe-if you have bystanders watching that they're at a safe distance," said Williams.

Illegal firework citations carry a fine of up to $1,000, and even the possibility of jail time. To check if your home is in a firework restricted area just take a look at the maps posted at all firework stands.

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