BOISE, Idaho — Ahead of the Fourth of July celebration, the City of Boise is sharing firework safety tips with the public so everyone can celebrate the nation's birthday safely.
The City of Boise said in a news release on the Fourth of July in 2023 that Boise Fire responded to 114 service calls and 25 fires caused by fireworks. The city recommends that anyone planning to set off fireworks should review the safety information before lighting them.
“The safety of our community is a responsibility we all share. We encourage all of you to celebrate the Fourth of July safely,” Boise Fire Marshal Mike Bisagno said in a news release. “Every year we see fires and injuries because of improper use and disposal of fireworks, or illegal fireworks. Our message is simple; keep it legal, keep it safe, and keep it out of the Boise Foothills.”
As previously reported, as a preventative measure, the Ada County Board of Commissioners earlier this month banned the use of fireworks in unincorporated areas. The ban will apply outside the city limits of Boise, Eagle, Garden City, Kuna, Meridian and Star.
All types of fireworks are banned in wildland-urban interface areas according to the Boise Code.
"Safe and sane" fireworks are allowed for use at midnight on July 5.
City officials are inviting the public to attend the fireworks display at Ann Morrison Park, which will be hosted on the Fourth of July. The show will start at dusk, and food vendors will be available so the public can buy food and drinks.
The City of Boise provided the list of safety tips below:
Dangerous and Prohibited Fireworks
These examples are NOT considered "safe and sane" fireworks:
- Fireworks containing explosive material that will burn or deflagrate when ignited. (Examples include, but are not limited to, firecrackers, cherry bombs, M-80s.)
- Fireworks that leave the ground of their own accord or fly when tossed into the air. Examples include, but are not limited to, skyrockets, bottle rockets, mortar shells, Roman candles.
- Fireworks designed for ground or near ground use that travel outside of a fifteen (15) foot diameter circle.
- Fireworks designed for ground or near ground use that, as a means of propulsion, emit showers or sparks longer than twelve (12) inches.
- Fireworks designed for use from a stationary position that emit sparks, showers, or flaming balls, vertically more than twenty (20) feet; or from which discharged material falls beyond a twenty (20) foot diameter circle.
Before Lighting Fireworks
- Check to make sure you are in an area where it’s legal to light off fireworks. Fireworks are prohibited in the Boise foothills (see additional information above).
- Use legal fireworks, available at licensed outlets. If you accidentally start a fire you can be sentenced to jail time and ordered to pay restitution for putting out the fire.
- Store fireworks out of the reach of children.
- Always read and follow label directions.
- Place pets indoors; they may be easily frightened by fireworks.
- Always have water handy (garden hose or bucket of water).
When Lighting Fireworks
- A responsible adult should always light fireworks.
- Keep matches and lighters away from children.
- Use outdoors only.
- Light only one firework at a time and move away quickly.
- Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
- Always remember, do not throw fireworks or hold them in your hand.
After Lighting Fireworks
- Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water.
- Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly.
- Never re-light a "dud" firework (wait 15-20 minutes and then soak it with water).
Leave 911 open for emergencies
- Call the non-emergency number, 208-377-6790, for firework complaints.
- Be prepared to give the exact address of the complaint. Please be patient if the lines are busy.
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