The City of Phoenix Reminds You To Celebrate Safely This 4th of July

The City of Phoenix was proud to host its annual Celebrate Safely: Fireworks Safety media event today at the Phoenix Fire Regional Training Academy.

Officials from the Phoenix Fire Department, Phoenix Police Department, and Parks and Recreation Department were on hand to remind residents about the new fireworks restrictions in place this year, as well as important safety tips for the proper use and disposal of legal fireworks.

A key message this year focused on increased fireworks restrictions, including legal fireworks, now that the City of Phoenix is under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions (link to that newsroom article).

Under Stage 1 restrictions, all fireworks, including legal fireworks, are prohibited within one mile of a desert or regional park. To find out if your address falls within a restricted area, please visit phoenix.gov/celebratesafely.

Lt. Brian Rimsza reminded residents that the penalties for violating these restrictions have also increased. Violators may face civil fines of up to 2,500 dollars or criminal misdemeanor charges punishable by up to six months in jail. Penalties increase for repeat offenses, and police officers now have strengthened authority to seize and destroy illegal fireworks.

Phoenix Fire Department Chief Adam Kozma emphasized that the goal of the Stage 1 restrictions, along with related public education efforts, is to reduce the number of fires, prevent injuries, and help ensure that the community can celebrate safely.

The City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department encourages residents to attend one of the City’s permitted, professional fireworks shows. A list of these events can be found here.

The City of Phoenix encourages residents to celebrate safely this 4th of July. For more information on fireworks safety and regulations, visit Phoenix.gov/CelebrateSafely.