| Updated: 7/05/2012 9:12 am |
Published: 7/04/2012 10:32 pm
|
Tulsa Police and city officials have been warning families about fireworks in the city. It’s illegal and it’s a costly fine.
FOX23 News went on a ride-a-long to see how people are ignoring the law and tying up 911 when they could be working on real emergencies.
Right before dusk and the pops of fireworks can be heard in Tulsa neighborhoods.
“How are you all doing tonight?” asked Sergeant Mark Wollmershauser.
The officer spotted a child holding a Roman Candle.
“We know we can’t be shooting fireworks in the city of Tulsa?” said Wollmershauser.
He knows it’s not the child’s fault that’s why Wollmershauser talked to the parents.
“I thought this was Turley,” said an adult. “No, this is the City of Tulsa,” said Wollmershauser.
Turley is across the street.
“There was a big fight with Roman candles and we don’t want that kind of trouble again,” said Wollmershauser.
Fortunately, no one was injured but it broke a window.
However, after the story those same parents didn’t understand the danger.
“It’s illegal sir. Technically it’s illegal,” said Wollmershauser.
The ticket can be costly. In Tulsa, fireworks violations can cost $500.
“I am just letting you know because I could have given you a ticket I would rather give you a heads up that it’s illegal,” said Wollmershauser to the parent.
Another little girl in another neighborhood is seen with a sparkler in the street.
Her father didn’t mind at all getting a heads up.
“Just letting you know there is a city ordinance against shooting fireworks off, even possessing fireworks,” said Wollmershauser.
Not only can fireworks hurt kids but there is a fire danger.
“The big reason we can’t do it in the neighborhood is because it could easily catch fire,” said Wollmershauser to a parent.
That’s why officers also made sure cars stayed off the grass in parks and driveways.
“It’s to save the neighborhood,” said Wollmershauser.
He pointed to dried grass that had been charred either by a car or possibly a firework.
Tulsa police officers said this type of patrolling is to make sure everyone has a safe Independence Day.
“I appreciate your cooperation,” said Wollmershauser. “Oh, no problem. Have a blessed day,” said a father.
Officers said as fireworks calls increase, it may take them longer to respond. They’ll need to respond to priority one calls such as shootings and domestics before firework calls.
