It”s better to be a spectator than to break the law, according to officials at the Columbus Police Department.
CPD officials are encouraging local residents considering staging their own fireworks shows to instead attend the free Fireworks on the Water show Saturday at the Stennis Lock and Dam.
City law prohibits private citizens, companies or groups from selling or shooting fireworks within Columbus” corporate limits. However, the ordinance provides exceptions for special fireworks shows pre-approved by the CPD and the Columbus Fire Department, such as the Fireworks on the Water show.
Those found illegally shooting or selling fireworks within city limits could face a $231 fine or up to 30 days in jail. Because fireworks could pose a fire or injury hazard when used in densely populated areas, police each year attempt to locate and prosecute those who break the city law, explained CPD Capt. Fred Shelton.
“We get a lot of fireworks complaints each year, and we give out a lot of fines for it,” Shelton said. “It”s definitely something we look for and try to keep from happening.
“We are really encouraging people to go out to Fireworks on the Water Saturday afternoon and enjoy the fireworks show there,” Shelton added.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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