Aurora, IL – Aurora police and fire officials are urging residents to continue reporting illegal fireworks as new enforcement data shows hundreds of complaints have been investigated since the start of the summer season.
According to the Aurora Police Department, officers responded to nearly 16,000 calls for service between June 1 and July 6, with 384 calls related to fireworks.
Police said approximately 70% of fireworks complaints ended before officers could arrive or the reported activity could not be located. However, officers made contact with individuals during 65 incidents, resulting in 32 fireworks citations and the seizure of illegal fireworks during four incidents.
According to the department, Community Oriented Policing (COP) officers also conducted proactive patrols in neighborhoods where fireworks complaints were common, responding to active calls and identifying violations through their own observations.
Officials also highlighted a recent incident demonstrating the dangers of illegal fireworks. On July 12, Aurora police responded after a firework exploded inside a local business, injuring a 17-year-old employee. Police said the juvenile allegedly responsible was arrested and charged with reckless conduct and use/explosion of fireworks.
Aurora Fire Interim Chief Kevin Nickel said fireworks continue to pose a significant risk of injury and property damage. Although rainy weather led to a quieter holiday weekend overall, firefighters still responded to more than 100 fire-related calls and 170 medical emergencies, including three homes damaged by fireworks.
Residents are encouraged to report fireworks activity that is actively occurring by calling the Aurora Police Department’s non-emergency line at 630-256-5000. Ongoing concerns or photos and videos of violations can also be submitted through the MyAurora311 app for follow-up.
Officials said enforcement efforts will continue throughout the summer as the city works to reduce injuries, protect property, and discourage the illegal use of fireworks.
