Lancaster City Building Fire Caused by Careless Use of Fireworks

Lancaster City Bureau of Fire has determined the late-night fire at 250 New Dorwart Street in SoWe (Lancaster Southwest Community) on July 4 was caused by fireworks being discharged within 50 feet of the building. Five neighboring properties experienced exterior damage as a direct result of this careless act.

Fire loss to the building and contents is estimated to be $100,000. The fire origin and cause were investigated by the Lancaster City Fire Marshal Division. City Firefighters arrived within three minutes of dispatch and quickly upgraded to a working fire assignment which brought additional support from neighboring agencies. Lancaster Emergency Medical Services (LEMSA) treated two City Firefighters on scene for heat exhaustion.

Lancaster City Bureau of Fire reminds you that Pennsylvania law and Lancaster City ordinance place restrictions on where fireworks can be used:

They cannot be ignited or discharged on a public or private property without express permission of the property owner.

They cannot be discharged from or within a motor vehicle or building.

They cannot be discharged toward a motor vehicle or building.

They cannot be discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure, whether a person is actually present.

They cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug.

For more information, please contact Lancaster City Fire Marshal at (717) 291-4869 or firemarshal@cityoflancasterpa.gov.