MESA, AZ — It's not uncommon to hear and see fireworks just before New Year’s Eve.
As the Valley prepares to ring in 2021, some neighborhoods are already seeing skies light up with fireworks, despite law enforcement agencies across the state reminding Arizonans aerial fireworks are illegal.
One Mesa neighborhood has seen its fair share this month, but some neighbors say there's more than just fireworks going off.
"As soon as it’s dark, and sometime in the early evening hours," said Amy Reid. "Some of them sound closer, some of them sound further but we’re always hearing them.”
Surveillance video from Reid's home shows one of the blasts she says shook her home taken December 17.
Tuesday night, it happened again. Her home security cameras captured a similar scene again- a bright white flash, followed by a large bang. Tuesday, the flash could be seen at a distance from her driveway.
"I thought I would just see somebody’s house all blown up," added Reid. "I was expecting I would see fire in the sky or a big plume of smoke.”
Reid worries the large booms aren't from your average fireworks. “I'm not an expert on these things, but it sure was scary," she said. " If somebody is using some kind of explosive firework or something that’s not legal, what if the next one hits my house?“
According to Arizona law, only ground-based fireworks are permitted for sale and use, outside of public events.
Nik Rasheta, spokesperson for the Mesa Police Department tells ABC15 they've received several "firework related calls,” but are unaware of any "suspicious bang sound phenomenon."
The department released this statement to residents via social media this week:
"New Year’s Eve is rapidly approaching and there are some things you should remember about fireworks. Secure your pets inside, as many get scared with loud noises and tend to run. Lock your fence/gate to keep your pets secured in your yard if they must be left outside. Review safety measures with your children, and always be present when they are using fireworks. Also remember that not all fireworks are legal. Ground-based fireworks are allowed, while those that detonate in the air are not. All firecrackers are illegal. Please refer to the attached flyer to find out what is allowed, and when. Please take your neighbors and community into consideration when using them, as loud noises may be disruptive. Have a safe and Happy New Year."
