The Pierre City Commission has voted to allow town residents to launch fireworks July 3 and 4.
The unanimous decision permits consumer fireworks, like those typically sold at fireworks stands, to be used within city limits only on those two designated days.
With COVID-19 distancing recommendations still in place, commissioner Jamie Huizenga says allowing individuals to light fireworks keeps people in smaller groups, so it’s worth a shot.
Commissioner Vona Johnson urges Pierre residents to be responsible.
Commissioner Jim Mehlhaff says people must follow certain restrictions.
Parameters for use of fireworks this year in Pierre:
- Fireworks can only be ignited on private property; permission must be given by property owner
- Fireworks can only be used between 10am and 11:59pm on July 3 and July 4
- All fireworks debris must be disposed of by the user of the fireworks prior to 10pm on July 5, 2020
- Fireworks can only be used under the supervision of an adult
- No fireworks are permitted on publicly-owned property
- Fire suppression tools should be at ignition site
Citizens are also reminded of the following fireworks safety tips.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
- Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
- Never light fireworks indoors
- Only use fireworks away from people, houses and flammable material
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person
- Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
- Never ignite devices in a container
- Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
- Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
- Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire
- Never use illegal fireworks