A resident fired up about careless use of fireworks in her neighborhood wants the city to ban them except at organized events.
LuDean Beebe, speaking during the time set aside for citizens' concerns at City Council meeting, said fireworks have "just gotten out of hand.""I'm fun. I'm not a fuddy-duddy," said Beebe. "I'm really concerned about fire and about the danger. This year was one of the worst. Can't these people go somewhere else?"
Beebe said neighbors set off firecrackers and bottle rockets, although both are illegal in Utah, during all hours of the night during the July 4 period and the 24th holiday.
"I know they are banned in some other communities and I'm wondering if Orem couldn't do the same," she said.
Councilman Kelvin Clayton said he shares Beebe's worry.
"I have an 88-year-old father who lives alone in a home by a field that's very dry," said Clayton. "I worry about him getting out if that field should catch fire, and kids set fireworks there."
Mayor Stella Welsh said the question may be moot because the holidays that traditionally bring in the fireworks vendors are over for this year.
Councilwoman Judy Bell said she felt people should be encouraged to attend organized fireworks displays.