Cities, agencies warn of fireworks hazards entering Fourth of July

Local public safety agencies have been gearing up for the Fourth of July, with a number of them sending out safety tips and advisories over the past week regarding fireworks entering Thursday’s holiday.

All are preparing for the Fourth, an annual rite of passage celebrating America’s Declaration of Independence in 1776 and typically featuring outdoor celebrations, barbecues and plenty of fireworks being set off to commemorate the occasion.

The city of Nampa sent out a news release on Monday reminding residents that the city’s noise ordinance remains in place from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.

The city said that last year, Nampa’s Fire Protection District received 27 calls for service related to fireworks including two building fires between July 3-5. Those calls also included seven dumpster fires.

Since 2020, the Nampa Police Department has received an average of 152 calls for service between July 1-7 each year including 108 last year, the news release stated.

The city also harked back to 2016 in its news release, when a resident’s home was “destroyed in the middle of the night” by an illegal aerial firework that landed on the house.

“The home was a total loss and there were many items that could not be replaced, along with the stress and financial burden which cannot be reversed,” the news release stated.

Nampa Mayor Debbie Kling said that it’s important to celebrate Independence Day and the country’s freedom. She also asked people to respect their neighbors.

“Each year the Mayor’s Office receives calls from frustrated residents, complaining about neighbors setting off fireworks at all hours of the night,” she said in the release. “Please respect others as the noise from fireworks can be extremely stressful for former military members dealing with PTSD, our pets and other community members. Fireworks related complaints also put a high demand on our public safety teams.”

Nampa Fire Chief Kirk Carpenter shared a similar sentiment regarding the Fourth and responsible fireworks use. He said that historically, the Fourth of July is one of the busiest days of the year for the fire department.

“The use of illegal fireworks does increase the chances of tragedy, and you can personally be accountable should you use them and cause harm,” Carpenter said. “Please be safe, be vigilant with your use of all fireworks, and remember to be respectful of your neighbors.”

The city of Boise said that last year, the Boise Fire Department responded to 114 calls to service, 25 of which were caused by fireworks. In a news release, the city encouraged residents to attend its fireworks display on Thursday night at Ann Morrison Park.

There has been a fireworks ban put in place in unincorporated parts of Ada County and in the Boise Foothills.

“Every year we see fires and injuries because of improper use and disposal of fireworks, or illegal fireworks,” Boise Fire Marshal Mike Bisagno said in a news release. “Our message is simple; keep it legal, keep it safe, and keep it out of the Boise Foothills.”

While the Caldwell Fire Department is encouraging residents to attend the city’s fireworks display at Brothers Park, it posted a Facebook message regarding fireworks safety. Here are some tips the department shared:

Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water or water hose nearby in case of accidents.Designate a safety perimeter. If you have ground-based fireworks like a fountain, it’s best to spectate from at least 35 feet away, the department said.Ditch faulty fireworks. Sometimes fireworks don’t go off, but duds always pose a risk. Never try to relight or approach a failed firework.Supervise children when they are handling sparklers. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees and can quickly ignite clothing. Children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet or touching body parts, the fire department said.Don’t forget about your pets. Fireworks can be extremely stressful animals, but there are ways to help reduce their fear and anxiety. Be sure to keep your pets indoors.Never place a part of your body directly over a firework or hold a firework in your hand when lighting it.Avoid alcohol consumption when handling or using fireworks.Consider safe alternatives to fireworks such as party poppers, bubbles, silly string or glow sticks.Using illegal aerial fireworks is considered a misdemeanor in Idaho.