NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, June 29, 2021
CONTACT: Ian Paul, Fire Chief, 605.280.2121
Fireworks Ordinance Remains this Fourth
Airborne fireworks or those that make a loud boom remain illegal in the city of Pierre.
“Historically, only small fireworks like sparklers and smoke bombs have been allowed in city limits,” said Ian Paul, Pierre Fire Chief. “Last year, we had an exception in place because of COVID. This year, we’re back to normal.”
Chief Paul says that the ordinance allows small fireworks between July 1 and July 5 and is on the books to keep people and property safe.
“Bottle rockets and other airborne firecrackers often land on roofs or on property that isn’t within eyesight after launch,” said Chief Paul. “That obviously poses a fire hazard –especially this year with the dry conditions.”
The Pierre Fire Department offers the following fireworks safety tips to help keep celebrations safe.
- Young children should not handle or use fireworks.
- Teens using fireworks should be closely supervised by a responsible adult.
- Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
- Fireworks should be lit on a smooth, flat surface.
- Fireworks should not be used near buildings, dry vegetation, and flammable materials.
- Safety glasses should be used for lighting fireworks.
- Never relight a “dud” firework; wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
- Water should be readily available.
“I want to really emphasis the water recommendation. Even a legal firework can cause an accidental fire,” said Paul. “Dry conditions make for a lot of fire fuel; a grass fire can get out of hand pretty quickly.”
To view the city’s fireworks ordinance (8-1-113), visit cityofpierre.org.