Brookfield bans burning and fireworks

City of Brookfield Fire Chief Charlie Myers and police have issued a temporary ban on burning in the city, and the use of all fireworks including sparklers and caps. Severe heat and extreme drought conditions are blamed for the ban.

As a result, burning and the use of fireworks constitute a public nuisance affecting safety, he said.

This ban includes fires in all outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, burning lawn waste, camp fires and the private use of consumer fireworks including sparklers, caps and novelty fireworks. Brookfield ordinances already prohibit the sale, possession and use of all fireworks with the exception of caps and sparklers.

Brookfield Police Department officials say given the conditions, officers will strictly enforce these restrictions. Violators and adults who permit the use of any kind of fireworks, including caps and sparklers, or burning by minors will receive citations. This ban does not prohibit residents from using contained grills for cooking food.

The ban will remain in place until further notice.

Residents may call the Fire Department at (262) 782-8932 with questions concerning the continuation of the ban. When the ban is lifted, it will be posted on the city website,

www.ci.brookfield.wi.us.