Sterling Police Chief Tyson Kerr said Thursday that the department has seen “a little bit” of activity with illegal fireworks leading up to the Fourth of July holiday weekend, but not a large number of complaints.
He said officers “continue to educate the public” about the laws governing fireworks in Colorado, and urged residents to have respect for their neighbors when holding their own celebrations.
Kerr urged residents to attend the city of Sterling’s Independence Day celebration at Pioneer Park, which will feature The Bittersweet Band at the Security Pavilion from 7 to 10 p.m., breaking for the city’s fireworks display at around 9:15 p.m.
The department will be providing traffic control for that event, and delays are expected especially in light of the road work being done in the area. At Pioneer Park, only one entrance will be open. Spectators are encouraged to stay and enjoy the band after the display, which will help ease traffic congestion. At the ballfields, motorists will be required to exit and head north on Ballpark Road. They may use either Platte Street or County Road 30 to come back into Sterling. Motorists leaving Home Depot or Wal-Mart may exit at the Wal-Mart traffic light and come back into Sterling on W. Main Street. Motorists may also exit from Home Depot (west exits) and head north on Ballpark Road. From First Christian Church and the Masonic Lodge, access to Colo. 14 will be blocked; drivers can take C.R. 37 to Iris Drive to come back into Sterling.
The Sterling Police Department will also be participating in the statewide “The Heat Is On” campaign against impaired driving over the holiday weekend, Kerr said, and will have extra officers on patrol for DUI (driving under the influence) enforcement.
Area residents can also enjoy an early fireworks show at North Sterling State Park, thanks to the Sterling Boat Club. The club’s annual display, visible from the park, will be held tonight. Admission to the park is $7 per vehicle.
For those to whom a July 4 celebration isn’t complete without their own pyrotechnic display, Kerr encouraged them to purchase their fireworks locally. The fireworks being sold at stands and businesses in the city are all legal. He urged residents to know the law and follow safety precautions. “Please celebrate the holiday responsibly, so everyone has a safe and enjoyable weekend,” he said. “We don’t want any unnecessary accidents.”
From the Sterling Police Department:
It is Unlawful:
• For anyone to possess or discharge any fireworks, other than permissible fireworks, anywhere in the State of Colorado.
• For anyone to sell fireworks unless that person is licensed as a retailer, wholesaler or exporter.
• For anyone to knowingly provide or sell any fireworks to anyone under 16.
• For anyone under 16 to purchase any fireworks, including permissible fireworks.
• For anyone under 16 to possess and discharge permissible fireworks, unless that person is under adult supervision
What are Permissible Fireworks?
Cylindrical or cone fountains, wheels and ground spinners, illuminating torches and colored fire, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellant or toy smoke devices, trick noise makers and snake or glow worms are all permissible.
What are Illegal Fireworks?
Any devices or components that, when used or ignited, project or disburse any metal, glass, or brittle plastic fragments. Cherry bombs, roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, shells and rockets, M-80s and M-100s, and helicopters are all examples of illegal fireworks.
A good rule of thumb: anything that explodes or leaves the ground is most likely illegal in Colorado.
What’s the Penalty?
Any person who violates the laws and City of Sterling Ordinance regarding the use of fireworks is subject to a summons with a mandatory court appearance and could face up to $999 in fines, 90 days in jail, or both.
Tips for Safe Fireworks Use:
• Always read and follow label instructions
• Have an adult present when children are involved
• Use outdoors only
• Always have water and a fire extinguisher available
• Never experiment with or make your own fireworks
• Never give fireworks to small children
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people or pets
• Always wear eye protection and gloves
Protect Your Pets:
More dogs get lost around July 4 than any other time of the year. Keep your pets properly confined to avoid escape due to fear of fireworks. Have your dog’s license and identification up to date in the event your pet does escape.
