Illicit Fireworks Spark Fire On Church Roof

ROYERSFORD, PA — Commercial grade aerial fireworks landed on the roof of a church in Royersford Borough last week, sparking a small fire. The Royersford Fire Department assisted police in the area of Church Street and 4th Avenue. Fire fighters quickly made the area safe and checked that there was no threat of fire anywhere else nearby.

Royersford Borough Police also were on the scene July 16 around 10 p.m. Officials remind the public that the Royersford Borough Code states "fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet of any structure, occupied or unoccupied, making essentially the entire borough off-limits."

A fire department statement said, "This situation had the potential to turn into a tragedy with possibly devastating effects for not only the building but the community as a whole. Please understand and be mindful of the hazards associated with fireworks and discharging them in residential settings."

Fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet of a structure whether it's occupied or not, according to the Royersford Fire Department. "Discharging fireworks is prohibited on all public property, including streets, public parks, schools and open spaces. Fireworks cannot be discharged within or towards a vehicle or another person, or by anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Fireworks cannot be discharged on private property without the express permission of the owner. Consumer fireworks can only be purchased, possessed or used by someone that is 18 years of age or older."