Article Contributed on: 7/1/2009 4:22:19 PM
With the Fourth of July just around the corner, Aurorans are encouraged to follow city regulations for fireworks, otherwise their holiday plans could fizzle.
"Nothing is legal in Aurora," said Bob Leigh, Deputy Chief of Life Safety and Fire Marshall for the City of Aurora.
Although some types of fireworks are sold in unincorporated Arapahoe and Adams counties surrounding Aurora, it is illegal to posses or use the fireworks in the city. These rules stem from safety concerns for residents.
"The danger is not only to the people (setting off fireworks), but there's a probability of causing an unsafe environment to others and causing fires," Leigh said.
This Aurora Fire Department is joining forces with the Aurora Police Department to form three teams for a task force of investigators that will patrol the city looking for private citizens using fireworks illegally.
"People really don't understand the consequences," Leigh said.
Those caught with fireworks face a minimum of a $250 fine and up to $1,000 and/or up to one year in jail. In addition to criminal charges, Leigh said, people just don't think about the other potentially life-altering results of their actions.
Although recent heavy rainfall means fields are less likely to catch fire this year, the largest threat for fires is evergreen trees, whose characteristics make it burn very hot and very fast even if it is healthy, Leigh said. These trees often are planted near homes, increasing the potential for a structure fire - which could lead to injuries to others and/or arson charges.
"The potential for consequences is tremendous for that short period of time you get to shoot fireworks off," Leigh said.
Fortunately for Aurorans, there is a way to enjoy fireworks at no risk.
The Fourth of July Spectacular is back for its eighth year July 4 at the great lawn of the Aurora Municipal Center.
"It's a hometown celebration in our hometown," said Marie Addleman, special events coordinator for the City of Aurora.
The celebration kicks off at 7 p.m. with performances by the U.S. Air Force Academy Concert Band.
"Aurora is a military community so it's a great fit for us," Addleman said.
Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. and lasts for 22 minutes.
"There is no time during the show where the sky is dark," Addleman said.
Addleman said the $40,000 event, paid for out of general funds, is largest firework display in the metro area in terms of the number of firework shells used in the show. Shells total 2,974 and includes varieties like chrysanthemums, willows, peonies, stars, multi-break shells and titanium salutes.
"People don't need to go somewhere far away to see a spectacular fireworks show," Addleman said. "We actually do what people from the surrounding areas to come here."
The city expects more than 100,00 viewers for the show.
Leigh is thankful for the Fourth of July spectacular. With the city task forces having to patrol 149 square miles, it helps that some residents celebrate in a safe way.
"Without having something for those people to participate in, those people would be looking for activity elsewhere," Leigh said.
UP NEXT
What: Fourth of July Spectacular
When: July 4 - 7 p.m. live music, 9:30 p.m. fireworks
Where: Aurora Municipal Center, great lawn, 15151 E. Alameda Parkway
Cost: Free
Info: Seating is limited