Police warn of a 'zero-tolerance' policy this weekend

Looking to celebrate the Fourth of July at home with your closest friends or family?

If you do, be aware that any wrongdoings will not be taken lightly by area police officers.

Both Elgin and Lake in the Hills Police will cruise the streets of their respective cities this weekend, searching for any contraband defined by the Illinois Complied Statutes.

In news releases, both departments highlighted the dangers and statistics of employing and using illegal fireworks.

The fireworks, including but not limited to firecrackers, M80's, torpedoes, bottle rockets and Roman candles, can cause serious injury to an individual or serious damage to a surrounding building.

According to the National Fire Protection Association's 2008 data on firework-related injuries and damages, firework usage caused an estimated 22,500 fires, including 1,400 structure, 500 vehicle and 20,600 outside and other fires.

The fires resulted in one civilian death, 40 civilian injuries and over $42 million in direct property damage.

Officials at the Lake in the Hills department said violators of the municipal fireworks ordinance or Illinois law will be issued tickets, which fines can be anywhere from $250 to $1,500.

According to a statement released by the Elgin Police Department, officers and officials over the past weeks have diligently enforced and cited any violations of the law.

"The department's 'zero-tolerance' approach is aimed at reducing the high number fires, injuries and deaths that are directly attributed to fireworks. Celebrate the holiday safely by enjoying professional displays and avoiding consumer fireworks," the statement read.

For more information regarding the use of fireworks this holiday weekend, visit nfpa.org/fireworks.