Are You Down With Illegal Fireworks?

Despite fireworks being illegal in Illinois and Homewood-Flossmoor, some residents are already blowing off their personal arsenals purchased in Indiana and the worst is yet to come, according to some Patch readers.

TAKE THE POLL: "Are You Down With Illegal Fireworks on July 4th?"

Readers’ comments on our guide to and H-F Patch’s Facebook page ranged from stories of terrified pets to M80 attacks.

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There is also the perception that local police don’t do enough to enforce fireworks bans because officers are too spread thin on July 4th checking to see if people are wearing their seatbelts or directing traffic after the professional fireworks shows.

Here's what a former local police officer had to say in response:

I can guarantee you that there have been many local citations written for fireworks. However, there is one reason why not many citations are written....it is a holiday people are supposed to celebrate. Most police officers are not bad guys and party crashers so they rely on the citizens to be adult about it when told stop. When the homeowner doesn't stop, lies, or takes and attitude,there is a good chance for a ticket. While I understand that fireworks do irritate and keep people awake, the car burglars and drunken party fights do not stop so there is a prioritization done by the police. 
Remember, police officers do not want to ruin a positive relationship with their communities over a citation on a day made for celebration. While 1 homeowner will be happy that the neighbor received a citation, there are 30 families at the party that will have a very negative opinion of the police department 

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Are you down with illegal fireworks on the Fourth of July? Take the poll, then tell us why in the comments.