Fireworks, driving safety concerns of law enforcement

By Mary Hood (Contact) | The Natchez Democrat

Published Saturday, July 4, 2009

NATCHEZ — It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

While the Fourth of July weekend promises many activities for locals, law enforcement officials encourage mindful gaiety.

While the county is under a burn ban, fireworks have not been included.

Natchez Police Chief Mike Mullins said his major concern for the weekend is grass fires.

Natchez Fire Chief Oliver Stewart said no place is safe for shooting fireworks, as everything is dry.

“I wish nobody would shoot them, but we can’t control that,” he said. “As dry as it is, I couldn’t say where it’s safe.

“It’s going to be dangerous for everybody.”

In such dry conditions, a simple spark could ignite a grass fire that could lead to a house fire, Mullins said.

But other holiday concerns are present, as well.

Sgt. Rusty Boyd, public affairs officer for Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop M, said all drivers should be aware of those driving under the influence.

He said highway patrolmen are going to keep a keen eye watching for impaired drivers.

“Highway patrol is going to be out there basically on double duty, double shifts, this whole weekend looking for impaired drivers,” Boyd said.

Even the slightest tip offs will be cause for suspicion, he said.

“A lot of the time a small violation will lead to an impaired driver. When the ability to operate a vehicle is impaired, they don’t use a turn signal, they make abrupt movements with a vehicle,” Boyd said.

He said he encourages drivers to exercise caution on the road this weekend.

“I think the main thing this weekend is try to drive as cautiously and as courteously as possible,” he said.

Mullins said when shooting fireworks this weekend, parents should watch their children carefully.

“The main concern is small children,” he said. “They should not have fireworks, and if they’re in a neighborhood, there’s always potential for them to run away from fireworks into the street and be struck by a car.”