Fireworks dealers disagree with growing list of local bans - 13 WTHR Indianapolis

Brush fires caused by sparks from a tipped truck on I-69 and by fireworks that set grass ablaze in Indianapolis are just two reasons 16 Indiana counties and a number of towns and cities are banning fireworks starting now.

Walk across your lawn and listen. The grass is bone dry. Firefighters fear it's fuel for a blaze.

"We thought, for the protection of property and citizens, this is the correct action to take," says Kokomo City Attorney Lawrence McCormack.

Kokomo and other cities and counties are banning use of private fireworks. Kokomo's mayor issued an Emergency Disaster Declaration at the advice of the fire chief.

"We all love fireworks displays, but we have to balance that between public safety," McCormack said.

He says protecting against blazes started by Indiana fireworks trumps all. But fireworks dealers call the bans illegal.

"(They're) scaring people who are smart enough to know where to use them and when not to," said Brian Hudson, who runs Mr. Fireworks stores in Kokomo.

Hudson's stores are a 40-year family tradition. He and other dealers says state law stops government from banning fireworks in the week leading up to the 4th of July - for any reason.

Trust people's judgment, he says, and trust the fireworks.

"Fireworks are made to explode and every bit of material burns before it lands on the ground," Hudson said.

But it's mishandled fireworks, often by kids, that can pose threats. Hudson says his ability to make a living is threatened.

"Definitely financially. You prepare for this week," he said.

But there is no ban on selling.

"I love my fireworks and it's kind of putting a little spoil on it right now. Maybe we'll get some rain," said one of his hopeful customers.

"Thought about going to Michigan, actually (to set them off)," said Ryan Wilkinson of Kokomo.

Wilkinson emptied a shopping cart full of fireworks into his truck - stuff he can't fire off in town.

"People are safe. There's fire departments everywhere. Yes, no, maybe. I don't know," he said.

He sides with dealers, believing that bans are illegal. But cities like Kokomo say it's possible when a local emergency declaration is issued.

The dealers' association will lay out what it will do tomorrow to fight the fireworks bans.