Fireworks.
They are a central aspect of Independence Day celebrations every year. But they can also be a safety hazard in the community.Idaho laws state that fireworks can be used as long as they don’t go over 15 feet in the air. So fireworks such as mortar shells and bottle rockets are prohibited. Items such as firecrackers that explode are also illegal in Idaho.
Joe Williams, the fire marshal of Moscow, spoke about what fireworks are legal in Idaho.
“Legal fireworks are outlined as any fireworks that are ground spinners, fountains, sparklers, smoke devices and snakes designed to remain on or near the ground and not to travel outside of a 15-foot diameter circle,” Williams said. “These fireworks may not also emit sparks or other burning material that lands outside a 20-foot diameter circle.”
Williams said these fireworks are known as “safe and sane” fireworks. These are the only types of fireworks that can be purchased inside of Moscow.However, fireworks that are illegal can be purchased in nearby towns- Pullman and Plummer. Larger fireworks are legal in Washington and Plummer is part of the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation, where fireworks are less restricted.
“We can not ensure that fireworks coming into the Moscow area from other places are safe and sane,” Williams said.
With illegal fireworks sold so close to Moscow, the police department receivesfirework-related calls every year.
“Fireworks can be sold between midnight on June 23 to midnight on July 5,” said police Lt. Dave Lehmitz of the Moscow Police Department. “Between that time last year we had 20 calls that were because of fireworks.”Lehmitz said most of the calls were nuisance and complaint calls, while a small number were fire related, requiring the fire department to come out and inspect the area.
“These calls come in because people are lighting fireworks that are aerial or have a loud bang to them,” Lehmitz said.
People that get caught lighting illegal fireworks can be charged with a misdemeanor, which has the maximum punishment of a $1000 fine and a year in jail. While going to jail is for more serious offenses, minor infractions can mean that the fireworks can get confiscated.
“While it isn’t illegal to possess fireworks of any kind, it is illegal to (be) using them (improperly),” Lehmitz said. “If we catch you using them illegally, we can confiscate them.”
After the police confiscate the fireworks, the fireworks are put into water and destroyed.
Lehmitz said you can avoid getting into trouble with the law if people use sense when lighting fireworks.
“Make sure when you are doing it, do it in a safe area,” Lehmitz said. “Also make sure that everyone is properly supervised. Parents are liable for their children on the fourth.”
Williams also added a few safety tips of his own.
“We talk about common sense when talking about fireworks,” Williams said. “Make sure you use them outside and always have water handy, whether that would be a hose or a bucket. Make sure you use them as intended, don’t try to alter them or combine them. Spectators should keep a safe distance when fireworks are being lit. Never try to relight a dud. You should let it sit for 20 minutes and soak them in water.”
Williams said following these few safety tips can help keep the community safe and make for an enjoyable and safe holiday for everyone.
Rick Clark can be reached at [email protected]