Illegal Fireworks Here in Loves Park

Every year dangerous and illegal items such as cherry bombs, m-80's and firecrackers cause numerous injuries to both adults and children and illegal bottle rockets along with many other flammable items cause thousands of dollars in property damage.

Parents may be held liable for any damages or injuries caused by their children's use of illegal fireworks.

Loves Park police will be out watching for illegal use of fireworks. We announced at City Council last week that if you have neighbors shooting off these illegal items to call the Loves Park Police and supply them with the address(es) and they will investigate and resolve the situation.

Watching fireworks is fun and can be a wonderful end to the day's festivities, if done by professional that are licensed. If done illegally by amateurs the results can be just the opposite, with possibilities of property damage or injury.

Four suggested guidelines for communicating with your children about illegal fireworks:

Set an example the most important thing parents can do for their children is to set a good example! - If you use illegal fireworks and make it a normal part of your Fourth of July celebration, don't be surprised when your children mimic your behavior.

Be factual! It is important to address the issue of illegal fireworks at a young age. If your child asks a question about illegal fireworks, be prepared to respond simply and factually and to lay the groundwork for a dialogue later on. Remember illegal fireworks are a year-round problem not just one that occurs around the fourth of July. - In discussing illegal fireworks with children, it is always best to stress the immediate consequences or impacts on themselves and the people around them. Use this guide to help them identify illegal fireworks and how to report their use to your local fire or police department.

Be aware of outside peer pressure! To children, peer pressure is more important than any other influence outside the family in effecting the use of alcohol, drugs or engaging in other dangerous activities such as the use of illegal fireworks. - Parents can encourage children to think for themselves ... To be self-reliant and independent ... To recognize the times when they should do what their friends do and the times when they should stand alone and do what they think is right.

Seek professional advice if needed! - If your child is engaging in activities to which you are opposed and can't seem to control, the best thing to do is seek professional advice immediately.

I hope you and your family have a fun and safe Fourth of July.