Pittsburgh Sees Huge Increase In Fireworks Complaints

PITTSBURGH, PA — City public safety officials have formed a fireworks task force to address a significant increase in fireworks complaints in city neighborhoods. The task force was formed when police received 137 fireworks complaint calls between June 1 and 21st compared to just 28 during the same period last year - a 389 percent increase.

With the city canceling its annual Independence Day fireworks display this year because of the coronavirus outbreak, many people seemingly have turned to private fireworks shows. City officials are concerned that injuries could occur because consumer fireworks - even those recently legalized - can be dangerous to people and property.

It's illegal to light fireworks in most parts of the city. City law prohibits the use of even legally purchased fireworks within 150 feet of any structure. Fireworks also are prohibited in all parks, any public space and on private property without the consent of the property owner.

Anyone caught violating fireworks law is subject to a $100 fine and the possible seizure of their fireworks.

“Fireworks are not safe, especially in the hands of children,” Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire’s Fire Prevention Officer Lisa Epps-Cuda said in a release. “Not even sparklers are safe. Think about it: Water boils at 212 degrees, wood burns at 575 degrees, glass melts at 900 degrees and
sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees.

"Why would you put something like that in the hands of a child?”

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