Thanks to community cooperation and a little help from Mother Nature, the Pocatello Fire and Police Departments successfully navigated a demanding Fourth of July week with 163 fireworks-related calls with few major incidents. The public’s commitment to safe and sane celebrations made a significant difference.
First responders were dispatched to multiple reports of illegal fireworks use. Officers and firefighters issued several warnings and citations for the use of illegal fireworks and the discharge of fireworks in prohibited areas. Approximately $10,000 worth of illegal fireworks were confiscated and safely destroyed. Fire crews also responded to five dumpster fires and one grass fire directly attributed to fireworks activity.
“We want to express our sincere appreciation to all the residents who followed the rules by using only safe and sane fireworks in permitted areas,” said Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei. “The public’s cooperation played a major role in keeping our community safe.”
“The rain we received on the Fourth of July was also a welcome relief,” added Pocatello Fire Department Assistant Chief Dean Bullock. “It helped keep fuels damp and undoubtedly prevented more serious incidents.”
Both departments remind residents that fireworks safety and compliance with local ordinances are critical to protecting lives, homes, and land year after year.
For more information about fireworks regulations in Pocatello, visit pocatello.gov.