MESA, AZ – It is not uncommon to hear and see fireworks just before the turn.
As the Valley prepares to play in 2021, some neighborhoods are already seeing the sky light up with fireworks, although security agencies across the state remember that Arizonans’ aerial fireworks are illegal.
A neighborhood in Mesa saw its fair share this month, but some neighbors say there is more than just fireworks going off.
“As soon as it gets dark, and sometime in the early evening,” said Amy Reid. “Some of them seem closer, others seem more distant, but we are always listening to them.”
Surveillance video of Reid’s home shows one of the explosions she says rocked her home on Dec. 17.
Tuesday night, it happened again. Security cameras in his home captured a similar scene again – a bright white flash, followed by a loud bang. Tuesday, the flash could be seen in the distance from his garage.
“I thought I was going to see someone’s house explode,” added Reid. “I expected to see fire in the sky or a great cloud of smoke.”
Reid worries that the big explosions are not from his ordinary fireworks. “I’m not an expert on these things, but it sure was scary,” she said. “If someone is using some kind of explosive firework or something that is not cool, what if the next one hits my house?”
Under Arizona law, only land based fireworks are permitted for sale and use, outside public events.
Nik Rasheta, a spokesman for the Bureau of Police Bureau, told ABC15 that they received several “calls related to fireworks” but are unaware of any “suspected explosive sound phenomenon”.
The department released this statement to residents via social media this week:
“New Year’s Eve is fast approaching and there are a few things to remember about fireworks. Protect your pets inside, as many are startled by loud noises and tend to run. Lock your fence / gate to keep your pets protected in your yard in case they should be left out. Review the safety measures with your children and always be present when they are using fireworks. Also remember that not all fireworks are Ground fireworks are allowed, while airborne fires are not. All fireworks are illegal. See the attached flyer for what is allowed and when. Take your neighbors and the community into account when using it. because loud noises can get in the way. Have a happy New Year. “