DEARBORN, Mich. – Dearborn is ringing in the Fourth of July with tighter rules this year. The city has implemented a temporary curfew for minors and is ramping up enforcement efforts to keep holiday celebrations safe.
Starting July 3, anyone under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian after 10 p.m. through July 4.
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Dearborn’s Fourth of July celebrations draw large crowds — and that size can sometimes lead to trouble. Police say they regularly receive complaints about illegal fireworks being set off in residential neighborhoods.
“We have in the past seen juveniles, young youth in city streets, at the schools, lighting off these fireworks and using illegal fireworks,” said Cpl. Dan Bartok, a spokesperson for the Dearborn Police Department.
Bartok says complaints spike this time of year. When illegal fireworks start flying in Dearborn’s densely packed neighborhoods, situations can quickly turn dangerous.
“This is a great example of just how dangerous illegal fireworks use can be, as you can see our neighborhoods are densely populated,” Bartok said.
Residents say the curfew isn’t just about protecting kids — it’s about protecting the entire community.
“They’re all young, they don’t think, so they’re just trying to have fun but they do it wrong. Hopefully when they get older they’ll understand,” said Dearborn resident Hussien Charara.
One anonymous resident said the measure is long overdue.
“If we didn’t have a curfew they’d be all night long, as in the past, so it’s a very good idea,” the resident said.
The curfew lifts at 6 a.m. Minors found outside without a parent or guardian before that time could face arrest, a curfew violation citation, and their parents may also be held responsible.
Bartok urged families to stay engaged during the holiday weekend.
“We really encourage parents and guardians to pay attention to what their children are doing, where they’re at especially on holidays or the evening hours,” he said.
Police say the goal isn’t to put a damper on Fourth of July festivities — it’s to make sure everyone gets home safely.