Residents and commissioners raise fireworks-safety concerns after July 4 events

Residents and several commissioners used the public-comment and commissioners’ comments portions of the meeting to press for stronger attention to fireworks safety following July 4 celebrations.

Resident Bridgette Stevenson promoted a weekly community meet-up and praised the city’s new electronic signboard as a helpful civic tool. Resident Gloria Haller raised separate concerns about recent zoning decisions.

Commissioner Menser cited national statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, saying that in 2015 "11 people died handling fireworks at home" and that about "11,900 were taken to hospitals with fireworks-related injuries," and urged the commission to work with state legislators on safety measures. The commissioner also described a recent personal vehicle accident to underline safety concerns.

City staff reported that Sergeant McFadden had recorded 21 fireworks-related calls for service in Mount Clemens between July 1 and July 5; officials noted that number reflects only residents who called police. Commissioners called for public education on safe fireworks handling and for continued enforcement consistent with state law and the city fireworks ordinance.

No new ordinance was introduced at the meeting; commissioners asked staff to consider whether additional outreach or legislative advocacy is appropriate.