Dangerous, legal consequences of setting off fireworks in southeastern Wisconsin

MILWAUKEE COUNTY (CBS 58) -- Independence Day is near, and many communities are getting ready for fireworks shows, but local law enforcement has a warning for anyone who may want to get in on the fun themselves.

Over the weekend, a 36-year-old man in Hartland was hurt after a faulty firework went off near his face. 

The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office also wants to remind people it is illegal to have, set-off, or sell fireworks in the county. Even though they're illegal, the South Milwaukee Fire Department says it responds to calls every year for people who get hurt. 

“They’re very dangerous commodities, and they have to be treated as such," South Milwaukee Fire Chief Joseph Knitter said. "That’s one of the reasons they’re illegal, we see responses to fires as a result of them, damage to personal property and personal injuries as well.”

According to Kittner, fines for having illegal fireworks can cost hundreds of dollars.

A list of the fireworks shows being held in southeastern Wisconsin can be found here.