OK Firefighters Being The Target Of Fireworks 'Not Anything New'

Every year 911 calls spike on Independence Day; and sometimes, while responding to firework calls, people shoot fireworks at officers and firefighters.

Firework displays attract thousands. While most leave it up to the pros to light up the sky, many still choose to set them off at home, even though it's illegal in the City of Tulsa.

"People have accidents, burns, little explosions, things of that nature," said Captain Chuck French with the Tulsa Fire Department.

He said these kinds of 911 calls keep them busy all Fourth of July weekend. While responding to those calls, sometimes first responders become the target.

A few years ago, our cameras caught someone shooting roman candles at police and firefighters at Chamberlain Park in north Tulsa.

French said, “We have had this issue. We have always had an issue with it, so it's not anything new to us and that's probably why we handle it so well, we understand it's going to happen."

Firefighters say when a firework call comes in, they know to be on a high alert and call TPD to assist if needed.

When it does happen, all it does is delay them from doing their job.

"If someone is in a dire need of an EMS call or fire, that delays our response that we are actually able to get there and help somebody," French said.

Not to mention, someone could get hurt.

"It could injure us, it could injure our truck - just about anything," said French.

If caught firing fireworks at first responders, you could face charges of assault or obstructing justice.