Zero Tolerance For Illegal Fireworks

I’ve said many times that New York is the safest big city in the nation. Today, we face fewer crimes, fires, traffic fatalities, and other major hazards than at any time in recent memory. With Independence Day approaching, it is also worth noting our remarkable record on fireworks safety; so far this year, there has not been a single recorded injury caused by fireworks in our city. We are determined to keep it that way. That’s why the Joint Fireworks Task Force, which includes the FDNY, NYPD, and other local public safety agencies, is going into overdrive during the next few weeks to keep illegal fireworks out of our city.
Let me be as clear as I can - possession or use of all consumer fireworks - M-80s, firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers - is illegal everywhere in the five boroughs. Anyone caught buying, selling, or using fireworks will be arrested.
We mean business! So far this year, we’ve arrested more than 60 people for having or trafficking in illegal fireworks, and confiscated more than 760 cases of fireworks. Using a new enforcement strategy, we’ve seized more than 30 vehicles that were being used to transport fireworks. And, thanks to a law I signed last year, sale, possession, or use of fireworks can result in stiff fines in civil court.
The penalties are serious. Moreover, we’re doing everyone a favor by enforcing them - because the stark reality is that in the hands of amateurs, fireworks can be extremely dangerous. Using them can result in burns, maiming injuries, fires, and serious property damage.
That’s why, as Independence Day approaches, we’re going to be analyzing all the calls that came into 3-1-1 last June and July about fireworks use. Doing that will tell us where to look for trouble again this year. In addition, if you are aware of any illegal fireworks activity, do not hesitate to call 3-1-1 at anytime.
The Joint Fireworks Task Force is just one example of how our Police and Fire Departments never stop working together to keep New Yorkers safe.
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all our City’s uniformed forces, and urge all New Yorkers to do your part too - especially by continuing to stay away from illegal fireworks.
— Mike Bloomberg is Mayor of the City of New York