Columbia police to step up fireworks patrol this week

Launching fireworks is illegal within most major city limits across the area – including Columbia, Jefferson City and Osage Beach.

Columbia police said they’re stepping up patrols this holiday week. Extra officers will be on duty to handle calls through Friday.

ABC 17 Newstallied up nearly 20 fireworks calls just overnight Saturday.

CPD said in an earlier news release fireworks were responsible for 18,000 fires and $32 million in damage nationwide in 2011.