Fire Department reminds residents of fireworks guidelines, safety tips

(From the Joplin Fire Department)

As Independence Day approaches, the Joplin Fire Department encourages citizens to keep safety in mind as they handle fireworks to avoid any problems. The public should also know and adhere to all regulations involving the sale and discharge of fireworks in the City of Joplin to provide a safer environment for their families, neighbors and the community as a whole. Also citizens are encouraged to be a good neighbor and remove any trash or debris from the fireworks they discharge.

Fireworks may be sold within the City of Joplin on July 1,2,3,4 only; and may be discharged only on July 1, 2, 3, and 4 from the hours of 12 Noon to 11 pm. The City prohibits the sale, possession or discharge of bottle rockets within the City. Any bottle rockets found will be confiscated immediately, and any variances of these rules may result in appropriate fines and confiscation of all possessed fireworks.

It should also be noted that during the set-up and event of the Independence Day Celebration at Joplin Athletic Complex, all private fireworks will be prohibited in Schifferdecker Park, Schifferdecker Golf Course and the Joplin Athletic Complex, as ordered by the Joplin Fire Chief. The notice is being posted in the interest of safety and is in accordance with the City of Joplin Code (SEC. 58.65 Item C). The order will be in effect on July 2, 3 and 4, 2016.

The notice will be posted at fireworks stands in the City of Joplin, as well as posted at the main entry points of Schifferdecker Park, Golf Course and the Athletic Complex. The Police Department has set a protocol in handling violations of this order, starting with a verbal warning to the possibility of arrest if repeated violations occur.

Other fireworks safety tips include:

1. Think first and foremost of SAFETY when discharging fireworks.

2. Follow all of the Manufacturer’s instructions.

3. It is recommended that children do not use any firework. However, if they do, always have adult supervision.

4. Only discharge fireworks in an area clear of any obstructions, and that has short grass or a noncombustible surface.

5. Clear the area of any trash, wood piles, yard debris, etc.

6. Make sure that everyone is a safe distance from the discharge area.

7. Have a method of extinguishing devices immediately, i.e. a garden hose, bucket of water, fire extinguisher.

8. DO NOT HANDLE DUDS. They may go off several minutes later.

9. Always use punks to light the firework. Using lighters or matches may cause the firework to ignite prematurely.

10. Do not hold a firework in your hand and light it.

11. Do not discharge fireworks toward or near people, houses or other structures, flammable or combustible items.

For more information about fireworks safety, contact Dale Brooks, Fire Safety Officer, at 417-624-0820 ext. 1307.