Pierre Residents Reminded of Fireworks Ordinance
As of this coming Friday you can legally buy and discharge fireworks in Pierre, and the Pierre Police Department is reminding people to be safe and abide by the law.
Pierre Police Chief Dave Panzer says that most fireworks are banned in city limits. According to city ordinance, fireworks with more than .25 grain of explosive per cap are illegal.
“Anything that goes up in the air like a bottle rocket or makes a loud bang is illegal in Pierre,” said Chief Panzer. “Sparklers, smoke bombs, fire cones and ground flowers are all allowed.”
Chief Panzer went on to say that Pierre’s city ordinance is more restrictive than state law which allows fireworks to be discharged through July 10. In Pierre, it’s legal to discharge fireworks between July 1 and July 5.
“The city rules are on the books primarily for safety reasons,” said Chief Panzer. “They are designed to help individuals avoid serious injury and to prevent accidental fires.”
Panzer offers the following safety guidelines for those using fireworks this Fourth of July.
• Follow all firecracker warnings and instructions.
• Only use fireworks on smooth flat surfaces, away from flammable materials.
• Avoid lighting fireworks near dry grass or leaves.
• Keep a water source nearby in case of fire.
• Provide appropriate supervision to kids who are using fireworks.
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