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Fire and Police Chiefs Urge Residents Not to Use Fireworks, Cite City Ban and Penalties
Summary
Springfield Fire Chief Jacob King and Police Chief Allison Elliott told listeners on the June ChiefChat podcast that consumer fireworks are banned in city limits under Springfield’s codified ordinance, outlined health and property risks, and said violations can carry jail time or fines.
Jacob King, Springfield fire chief, and Allison Elliott, chief of police, used the June edition of the city’s ChiefChat podcast to urge residents not to set off consumer fireworks inside Springfield city limits and to attend professionally managed displays instead.
The hosts said state law changed in 2022 to allow the sale of consumer fireworks in Ohio, but municipalities were permitted to opt out. "The city of Springfield does not allow for that," Elliott said, adding that the commission and city manager weighed public-safety concerns before keeping the local ban in place.
King emphasized the injury and fire risks tied to private fireworks. He said there are about 14,700 emergency-room visits nationwide during the July fireworks season and cited 2024 figures showing 11 deaths and increases from 2023 — a 52% rise in injuries and a 38% increase in deaths. "Sparklers burn anywhere from 1,200 to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit," King said, noting that many injuries involve adults aged roughly 25 to 44.
Elliott cited the Springfield codified ordinance (chapter 15.13.04) prohibiting possession, sale or discharge of consumer fireworks in the city and said enforcement can include arrest. "If you are found to be lighting off fireworks here within the city of Springfield, that's a charge that's punishable up to 180 days in jail or a $1,000 fine," she said, adding that civil liability for damages is also possible.
The chiefs described how fireworks-related calls can strain emergency services and utilities and can be traumatic for veterans and pets. They also warned that fires caused by fireworks can lead to severe criminal charges, up to aggravated arson, depending on investigation findings and intent.
As safer alternatives, Elliott and King pointed listeners to professional shows in the Miami Valley, including the Buck Creek Boom produced by National Trail, and encouraged residents to report nonemergency concerns to the city dispatch line at (937) 324-7680 or call 911 for immediate dangers.
The hosts closed by reminding listeners to enjoy summer events responsibly and to favor lawful, professionally managed displays over private fireworks use within Springfield city limits.
