Police Department Urges Compliance with Fireworks Regulations

     During the past several years a growing concern in our community has been the use of illegal fireworks.  While this is an issue for most communities during the Fourth of July and other summer holidays, it seems to be a problem all summer long in the Town of Rome.  I believe no harm is ever intended when it comes to displaying fireworks.  However, with the environmental makeup of our community, coupled with dry conditions, fireworks are a disaster waiting to happen in Rome.

     While preparing a plan of action for dealing with the illegal discharge of fireworks I was able to obtain some statistics from the Dept. of Natural Resources regarding wildland fires in our area.  I was surprised to learn that in the past 10 years in Central Wisconsin 104 wildland fires have been started as a result of fireworks.  In 2006 alone, 26 fires were started by illegally discharged fireworks.  While none of these fires turned out to be catastrophic, it is only a matter of time before countless acres of land and valuable property is lost due to fireworks. 

     Due to the real threat to property and life posed by fireworks, the Rome Police Department will increase enforcement efforts of state and local fireworks regulations in 2007.  The police department will be actively seeking out those discharging illegal fireworks and will cite offenders with a $235.00 municipal citation.  In order to be successful in curbing the use of fireworks the police department needs your assistance.    Please report those discharging fireworks.  An address and any description of the offenders can be helpful for the investigating officer as it is often difficult for officers to pinpoint who is discharging the fireworks.  Enjoy various fireworks displays put on throughout the summer by licensed professionals, but please do not put everyone at risk by discharging illegal fireworks on your own.

Adam Grosz – Police Chief