PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Phoenix police and fire departments are working together on a new fireworks enforcement initiative this July 4, following a surge in emergency calls in recent years.
The effort began last year when the city started tracking emergency calls related to fireworks. Officers were then deployed into communities with high call volume in the weeks leading up to the holiday to inform neighbors of the new rules.
What’s allowed — and what isn’t
Phoenix is currently under a stage one fire restriction, which prohibits fireworks within 1 mile of mountain preserves and parks. Anything that goes into the air is illegal under city rules. Violators face fines or criminal charges, and under the new rules, police can also seize and destroy illegal fireworks.
Phoenix police commander Mercedes Fortune said the department will have extra staff on duty during the holiday…