PRESS RELEASE

City of Moscow Encourages Fireworks Safety

June 28, 2020 (Moscow, Idaho) -- The City of Moscow would like to remind the community of the safety practices and laws regarding fireworks as the July 4th Independence Day Holiday approaches.

In Idaho, Non-Aerial Common Fireworks are allowed to be sold and used beginning midnight on June 23rd until midnight on July 5th. Non-Aerial Common Fireworks include fireworks such as ground spinners, fountains, sparklers, smoke devices, or snakes. These types of fireworks are designed to remain on or near the ground and not to travel outside a fifteen-foot diameter circle. They are also designed not to emit sparks or other burning material greater than or higher than twenty feet. These types of familiar fireworks are known as "safe and sane."

Safety tips to consider this year when igniting "safe and sane" fireworks:

Only use fireworks outdoors.
Always have water handy (hose or bucket).
Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
Spectators should keep a safe distance from where fireworks are being ignited.
The person lighting fireworks should wear safety glasses.
Alcohol and fireworks do not mix, have a designated sober person light any fireworks.
Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.
Do not ever use illegal or homemade fireworks as they can be deadly.

Illegal fireworks are prohibited at all times, and the use of these dangerous explosives may result in life-threatening injuries, extensive property damage, and out of control fires. Illegal fireworks are commonly known as firecrackers, bottle rockets, cherry bombs, roman candles, or other explosive devices that do not meet the definition of Non-Aerial Common Fireworks. Illegal fireworks are not available for purchase locally.

Please remember the fire danger and injuries fireworks can cause. According to the National Fire Protection Associations, on average, more than 8,500 injuries and 19,700 fires are reported annually as the result of fireworks. These fires cause an average of three deaths, forty injuries, and an average of $43 million in direct property damage. On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.

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Story Contact: Dan Ellinwood, Fire Inspector
Phone: 208-883-7608
Email: dellinwood @ci.moscow.id.us

City of Moscow

206 E Third Street
Moscow, ID 83843
Contact: Gary J. Riedner, City Supervisor
Phone - 208.883.7006
Email - griedner@ci.moscow.id.us
Website - www.ci.moscow.id.us