Fireworks complaints were so high in Pittsburgh last year, the City created a Fireworks Taskforce.
The taskforce is returning this year, and local leaders are sharing their concerns about the number of fireworks-related injuries and property damage in 2020.
Pittsburgh Fire assistant chief Brian Kokkila says the taskforce added even more staff from last year.
"This is a serious matter, and a lot of folks are put at risk, not only from injury but damage of property," he said. "Lives are at stake when we're talking about misuse of fireworks."
Officials prefer people leave fireworks to the professionals. Those who do choose to light their own fireworks are required to do so at least 150 feet from any structure.
According to Pittsburgh fire investigator Michael Burns, the taskforce will initially hand out warnings followed by $100 fines.
If property damage or injuries are severe enough, Burns says people can face criminal charges.
"We had a deck hockey rink last year in Hazelwood that was damaged," he said. "We had playground equipment by the fire and fireworks."
Pittsburgh residents who want to call the Fireworks Taskforce can call the City's 3-1-1 line or 9-1-1.
