VIDEO: Fireworks explosions caught on camera as Springfield police sees nearly 700 percent increase in fireworks complaints

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield police say they’ve seen 199 firework complaint calls between May 1 and Tuesday, marking a nearly 700 percent uptick over the same time frame last year.

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“The Fourth of July is a time of celebration, and we don’t wish to discourage anyone from observing the holiday, but we want the festivities to be safe,” said Springfield City Manager Bryan Heck. “The use of fireworks increases the chance of injury, could lead to property damage, and the noise is a public nuisance and harmful to those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and to animals.”

Last year, Springfield police received 25 calls related to fireworks during the same May 1 to June 23 time frame.

On June 26, home surveillance video showed a dangerous fireworks situation in the city, where multiple explosives were fired near homes and under vehicles parked on the road.

While legislation that would legalize fireworks in the state is still pending in the Ohio General Assembly, they are still illegal and could lead to arrest.

Citizens who wish to report use of fireworks are asked to contact the Springfield Police Division at 937-324-7865.

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