Fire marshal advises residents to douse fireworks

By Amanda Rogers

Mansfield Record

The United States celebrates its 246th birthdaythis weekend, but Mansfield Fire Marshal Scott Lingo is hoping that the partydoesn’t get explosive.

Possession and discharge of fireworks in the city limits is llegal in Mansfield, he points out, punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 per offense.

Despite that, the fire department gets hundreds of calls each year about illegal fireworks in the city.

“Generally, by the time we arrive, they’re done,” Lingo said.

But the stakes are higher this year, thanks to the lack of rain. On Tuesday, Tarrant County Commissioners approved a 90-day burn ban because of the danger, with a $500 fine for each offense.

“We are close to drought conditions,” Lingo said. “It’s a tinderbox right now. You could burn the county down.”

Earlier in the summer, the fire department fought blazes caused by barbecue grills.

“Before the fire department could respond, one burned five yards, the siding on a house, an air-conditioning unit and fences,” Lingo said.

With dry conditions, fireworks could do as much – or more –damage, Lingo said.

“That could happen before we get water on it,” he said.

Fireworks can also frighten animals and humans, Lingo points out.

“Animal control goes out and has to round up all the dogs hat get out,” he said. “And it’s not just animals, but our veterans. Some have PTSD. I’ve seen that this really affects them.”

Lingo doesn’t want to douse the Independence Day spirit, though.

“My advice is to leave the fireworks to the professionals,” he said. “We’re having a really good show on July 3.”

The city will host Mansfield Rocks at 6 p.m. July 3 at Big League Dreams and Hawaiian Falls, 500 Heritage Parkway. Cost is $20 per carload. Get more information here or click here for tickets.

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