Shooting off fireworks is a part of 4th of July holiday celebrations, but safety must be a priority.
South Dakota state fire marshal Paul Merriman says this year’s extremely dry conditions make being cautious about how and where people use fireworks absolutely crucial.
Merriman says while fireworks can be fun, they can also be dangerous.
As always, Merriman says people must adhere to state and local rules regarding fireworks.
He says every year across the nation, there are instances of property being damaged or people getting hurt or killed because of fireworks.
Again, 4th of July fireworks sales are legal in South Dakota this year (2021) from June 27 through July 5. The final day to legally discharge fireworks– unless otherwise directed by city or county regulations– is July 11.
Fort Pierre fireworks rules:
Discharging fireworks is allowed in Fort Pierre now through Monday, but only certain types of fireworks and only during certain hours. No bottle rockets less than 14 inches total length or with a rocket motor length of less than two inches are allowed. No sky lanterns of any type or size are allowed.
Hours for discharging fireworks in Fort Pierre are:
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June 29, 30, July 1, 2 9am – 10:30pm
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July 3 & 4 9am – midnight
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July 5 9am – 10:30pm
Pierre fireworks rules:
Airborne fireworks or those that make a loud boom remain illegal in the city of Pierre. Only small fireworks like sparklers and smoke bombs are allowed to be discharged within city limits only only from July 1 to July 5.
Due to the drought conditions, fire danger from improper use of fireworks is extreme. Residents should be careful and watch for grass fires. The extremely dry conditions have created a lot of fire fuel and even legal fireworks can cause an accidental fire.
The Pierre Fire Department offers the following fireworks tips to help keep celebrations safe:
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Young children should not handle or use fireworks.
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Teens using fireworks should be closely supervised by a responsible adult.
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Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
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Fireworks should be lit on a smooth, flat surface.
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Fireworks should not be used near buildings, dry vegetation, and flammable materials.
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Safety glasses should be used for lighting fireworks.
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Never relight a “dud” firework; wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
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Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
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Water should be readily available.
To view the city’s fireworks ordinance (8-1-113), visit cityofpierre.org.
Infographic credit US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
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