With the Fourth of July right around the corner, fireworks stands are now open. Great Falls Fire Marshall Doug Bennyhoff met with News Channel 5 to give us some tips on how to celebrate safely because used incorrectly fireworks can be dangerous. A few years ago one local man lost his thumb in a fireworks accident and though firework stands opened just yesterday in Cascade County, the fire department has already responded to an emergency call: a grass fire behind Ryan’s Cash in Carry in Black Eagle caused by fireworks. A fireworks stand was just a few hundred feet away. The Great Falls Fire Department has a few safety tips to prevent things like this from happening.
1) Stay a safe distance away after lighting the fireworks
2) Light fireworks on a hard surface away from structures and dry brush. Also keep water nearby.
3) Supervise kids at all times
4) Follow the instructions the fireworks come with and follow the laws.
In Great Falls, fireworks can only be set off July 2nd-4th 8 AM to midnight. They must be used on private property. They are not permitted in parks or on public streets. Fines start at $100 for the first offence, but can be as much as $1,000. Firefighters say the rules aren’t meant to restrict independence, but help keep you safe while celebrating our nation’s birthday.