Safer to watch fireworks at a show
Yumans who want that “boom-boom pow” this Independence Day will have to attend a professional show rather than light off fireworks themselves.
That's because fireworks are illegal in Arizona.
Local law enforcement officials say they just want the public to be safe.
“The Yuma Police Department wants the residents and our visitors to have an enjoyable Fourth of July,” said Yuma Police Chief Jerry Geier. “Remember, fireworks are illegal and sparklers are still illegal. Those in possession of fireworks may be subject to arrest.”
The Yuma Sun previously reported that even though Arizonans may purchase fireworks somewhere fireworks are legal, it's still illegal to set them off here. Yuma Police Department spokesman Clint Norred previously told the Yuma Sun that most fireworks come across the Mexican border, but he said some “trickle over here” from tribal lands.
According to Arizona Revised Statute 36-1601, any combustible or explosive composition, substance or combination of substances — including those that require fire underneath it and/or to propel it — are illegal.
Examples include firecrackers, skyrockets, roman candles, daygo bombs and sparklers.
And though Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer signed legislation earlier this year that legalizes sparklers, the law does not go into effect until Dec. 1.
Saturday events:
• In Dateland, the nation's independence will be celebrated Saturday at Dateland School with a special fireworks show. Each firework shot will be dedicated and sponsored by loved ones not only from Dateland but all of east county. The celebration starts at 6 p.m. with a soccer game, followed at 7 p.m. with family games. The celebration will end with an after-dark fireworks show.
County residents are invited and asked to bring chairs and blankets to the Dateland celebration.
• The Quechan Indian Tribe will mark the holiday with an Early Independence Day Celebration at Paradise Casino, north of Yuma, starting at 7 p.m. Saturday, with BMX 7-7:15, live music from 7-9 p.m. and a spectacular fireworks show starting at 9:30 p.m.
Sunday events:
• On Sunday, Cocopah Casino will host indoor and outdoor parties with live music and fireworks. The gates for the outdoor festivities will open at 7:30 p.m., with parking available at the speedway and the area around the casino. The fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m.
• In San Luis, Ariz., the Parks and Recreation Department is preparing for a “great celebration” on Sunday at Joe Orduno Park, 965 N. Park Ave. The event will take place from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. A fireworks show will start at 10:30 p.m.
• In Somerton, the Fourth of July will be celebrated at the Main Street ball field with activities for kids, booths offering food and drinks and fireworks at dusk. The pool will be open with free admission.
• In Wellton, a Fourth of July fireworks show will be held at Butterfield Park, 10234 Dome St. Fireworks will be provided by the Wellton Parks and Recreation Commission. Fireworks will go off after dark. Food booths will be available.
