We will soon join again in celebration of our freedom, history and tradition at one of the largest and most iconic events in Idaho Falls – the Independence Day celebration.
Fireworks are a popular and fun display of patriotism, but they should always be handled with safety and courtesy for others in mind. We offer the following information regarding city code and the safe use of fireworks in Idaho Falls:
CITY CODE
-Safe and sane fireworks may only be purchased within city limits between June 24 and July 5.
-The Fire Marshal has the authority to approve or disapprove of firework display permits for various community events involving pyrotechnics.
-Please be courteous of others. Residents may be cited for disturbing the peace if they are found to be causing a disturbance in neighborhoods because of fireworks.
-Prior to purchasing fireworks, learn more about illegal or banned fireworks inside city limits by reviewing the city code. Illegal and banned fireworks include, but are not limited to, firecrackers, cannon crackers, blank cartridges, skyrockets, rockets, roman candles, chasers, whistles, all torpedoes that explode by means of friction and toy cannons. Possession of these types of fireworks is illegal. Law enforcement and/or fire officials may seize them and issue a citation.
-Due to the location of the Melaleuca Freedom Celebration fireworks launch site and Riverfest, the highly congested and grassy areas around Snake River Landing, and for the safety of persons attending the event, the Fire Marshal has restricted any and all personal fireworks, including sparklers, from Lochsa Drive, south to Sunnyside Drive, and from the Capital Avenue River Walk west to the Porter Canal.
SAFETY
-Keep safety in mind when lighting fireworks. Never light fireworks inside a structure.
-Point fireworks away from homes, and keep from brush, leaves and flammable substances. Never throw fireworks at people.
-Maintain a minimum 40 ft clear space when lighting fireworks and stand several feet away once lit. If a firework does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it; put it out with water and dispose of it.
-Always have a bucket of water, hose, and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
-Closely supervise children around fireworks. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Children must be at least 16 years of age to light fireworks.
-Sparklers may seem harmless, but can cause severe injuries as they burn at about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals. Children should be supervised while using sparklers.
-If a child or adult is injured by fireworks, seek medical attention immediately.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Fireworks in Idaho - Know Before You Light!
Photo Credit: Fireworks Display, Sherri Barnes
Media Note: The Fire Marshal is available for interviews this week (June 19-22). To schedule an interview, contact Kerry Hammon, Public Information Officer, at (208) 612-8122, khammon@idahofallsidaho.gov.
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