Mansfield Fire Department reminds residents that fireworks are illegal in the city limits

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By Amanda Rogers

Mansfield Record

Everyone wants to celebrate the 4th of July with a bang, but better leave the fireworks to the professionals or get out of town.

“All fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in Mansfield,” said Mansfield Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Smith. “You can own them, but the package has to be sealed. If you’re caught setting them off, it could be a $2,000 fine.”

Fireworks are defined as “anything with 1/10 gram of gunpowder,” said Mansfield’s Fire Marshal Scott Lingo.

“If it goes bang, it’s prohibited,” Lingo said.

“Fireworks are very dangerous if mishandled and shouldn’t be handled by children or impaired people,” Lingo said. “The International Fire Code prohibits fireworks, and we have a city ordinance that prohibits them.

“They are more dangerous than people realize,” Lingo said. “They cause fires and cause injuries.”

So what do you do if your neighbors are lighting up the night with fireworks?

“Call the non-emergency number for fire and police, 817-473-0211,” Lingo said. “Do not call 911 unless you have an emergency.”

Smith also reminds people to think of their animals and bring pets indoors for the evening. Dogs can become frightened by fireworks and run away.

“We encourage people to buy supplies for the Mansfield Animal Shelter’s Lucky Fund instead of fireworks,” Smith said.

Mansfield Animal Care & Control’s Lucky Fund helps provide veterinary care for animals at the shelter.

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