We’ve seen plenty of complaints on social media, and readers have emailed us to ask, “When will it stop?”
In the last 28 days, there were 378 calls for service relating to firework complaints, according to the Richmond Police Department, which shared a map of locations of incidents.
In response, city officials are pleading with residents to stop, saying fireworks are illegal, dangerous, triggering for veterans and pets and also because an exceptionally dry season means they’re a fire risk.
With public gatherings for sanctioned fireworks performances canceled due to COVID-19, officials urge residents not to put their own shows.
“Though The Richmond Police Department has worked with Richmond Fire Department to try and respond to these incidents, we have limited capacity to respond as in years past,” city officials said. “We need the help of neighbors and community members to share the health and safety concerns of using illegal fireworks among friends and neighbors.”
Richmond police encourage the community to continue to report illegal firework activity at (510) 233-1214.
“We will also be offering a reward for anyone that turns in illegal fireworks or gives useful information that leads to their confiscation,” RPD said. “The reward will depend on the quantity of fireworks turned in or confiscated. You can message us on our social media platforms.”
