If you live inside the Senatobia city limits and plan to shoot fireworks on Independence Day, police officers will conduct extra patrols to crack down on celebrations that last too long.
Independence Day is Monday, July 4.
Even though the sale, possession and use of fireworks are illegal in Senatobia, and have been since an ordinance was adopted in 1950, city officials are usually more lenient in their enforcement on Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve.
Senatobia Mayor Greg Graves said people should be reasonable in their participation.
“We ask people to be respectful of their neighbors, watch the time and don’t shoot late at night or into the early hours of the morning,” Graves explained. “Most people go back to work Tuesday morning, so please be considerate while celebrating.”
Graves said his definition of “late” is any time after 10:30 or 11 p.m.
Violation of the city’s fireworks ordinance is a misdemeanor and carries a fine of $5 to $50 and up to 30 days in jail.
Fireworks could lead to bigger problems this year due to recent hot and dry conditions.
Senatobia Fire & Rescue Department and the National Safety Council advise everyone to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals, and not to use any fireworks at home. Fireworks are the origin of approximately 18,500 fires each year, including 1,300 structure and 300 vehicle fires.
“With the dry conditions we have been experiencing that are expected to continue throughout the July 4th holiday, it causes additional hazards that put individuals and families in danger,” said Fire Chief Ethan Foresman.
The Senatobia Police Department has received numerous disturbing the peace complaints the last few years on Independence Day. Following up on those calls could delay officers in responding to actual emergency situations.
Most complaints involve people shooting fireworks late at night and close to other residences. Police officials said there is zero tolerance for shooting fireworks before the Fourth of July and the days and nights that follow.
Fireworks startle pets because they are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and strong smells.
The Humane Society website recommends allowing pets to stay safely indoors on the Fourth of July and other days people are likely to set off fireworks, preferably with a radio or television turned on to soften jarring noises.
“The main thing we ask is to be respectful of others,” said Police Chief Richard Chandler. “If we receive a complaint, we have no choice but to come out and ask you to shut it down.”
