Fireworks a problem in Carpentersville

I thought firecrackers were illegal in Illinois, but maybe not so in Carpentersville. Why is it then for every holiday - and sometimes for nothing - our neighborhood sounds and looks like a war zone. The recent Fourth of July weekend was the worst ever! After all the frivolity, the streets and parkways are full of debris. The noises were so loud and aggravating - giving terrible headaches. It became impossible to watch television, listen to music, read a book, and sleep. Even animals could not withstand the high pitch, whistling and thunderous noise of these explosions.

What about safety? When driving around, you would see parents standing by their garage and letting children blast off their firecrackers on their apron or in the street. Is someone going to have to get hurt before something is done?

What about the potential damage to homes while these rockets are blasting off? Will a home or property have to catch fire?

When will the police and fire departments crack down on these offenders?

Many homeowners echo these same feelings but are afraid to come forward. I sincerely wish Carpentersville would adopt the "zero tolerance" fireworks policy that Lake in the Hills and Elgin recently has. Heavy fines should be given to these offenders; the monies will provide additional revenue.

I hope something serious doesn't have to happen before anything is done.

Paulette Keegan

Carpentersville