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As July approaches, the celebration of America’s Independence comes to the forefront of many people’s thoughts. A long weekend of activity - including fishing and other water activities, picnics and fireworks shows are on tap.
Not all fireworks shows are the aerial spectaculars reminding us of the battle for independence. Most are small, personal shows with bangs and pops purchased from local fireworks stands.
With those activities, officials are releasing tips for safety, as well as responsible actions when enjoying personal fireworks.
The Sidney Police Department has posted the following reminder:
“It is that time of year again, when everyone wants to celebrate the independence of our country by shooting off fireworks. The Sidney Police Department would like to remind everyone to be safe and responsible during this event.
“Please do not shoot fireworks before 7 a.m. and not after 10 p.m. Please remember to be respectful of other people’s property. The grasses around the area are beginning to dry up so be careful not to start any fires.
“Please do not throw fireworks from or at moving vehicles. If you use fireworks, please cleanup after yourself.
Animals do not like loud popping noise please try not to use fireworks around animals, and be respectful of your neighbor’s animals.
“It is illegal to transport fireworks from another state for use in Nebraska unless you are licensed to do so
“A complete list of permissible fireworks can be obtained from the state fire marshal web page
The Sidney Police Department wishes you a safe and Happy 4th of July.”
The Nebraska Fire Marshal’s office has also released useful information.
Ray Nance, public information officer with the fire marshal’s office, said Nebraskan’s have more opportunity to find places for fireworks purchases. Last year, said Nance, there were 706 licensed fireworks retailers across the state. This year, he said, there are 722.
Nance said in accordance with State Law the selling period for consumer fireworks begins June 25th 12:01 a.m. and ends at midnight July 4th. The selling time frame can be shortened by city ordinances so citizens need to familiarize themselves with their local requirements. All retail stands need to be licensed and citizens should purchase their consumer fireworks at Nebraska stands.
Nance said state law has changed to allow a broader selection of consumer fireworks, but there are still some restrictions. Some of the prohibited items include rockets with a stick attached, nighttime parachutes, and wire sparklers. For a complete list of prohibited items please go to http://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=28-1241.
In 2015 Nebraska Fire Departments reported 49 fires directly attributed to fireworks. Those fires resulted in $60,417.00 of total loss.
A total of 176 fireworks related injuries were reported by 44 Nebraska hospitals during the survey period of June 25 through July 5, 2015. 27 hospitals reported no fireworks related injuries treated during this same time frame.
Nance also provided fireworks safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety, American Pyrotechnics and the Insurance Information Institute that can make your celebration safer.
• Safety first. Never throw or point fireworks at others.
• Obey the law. Don’t use fireworks that are illegal in this state.
• Keep fireworks away from children. Sparklers burn at up to 2,000 degrees, making them extremely dangerous for children.
• ALWAYS read and follow the directions for fireworks carefully.
• Take it slow. Light only one at a time.
• Don’t use malfunctioning items. Never attempt to relight a “dud.”
• Have a fire extinguisher, hose, or bucket of water handy for emergencies. Drop used fireworks into a bucket of water. (Every year trash related fireworks fires occur because used fireworks are not fully extinguished.)
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a “designated shooter.”
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