OOHS AND AWES WITHOUT THE OUCH THIS 4TH OF JULY
Faribault, Minn. — The 4th of July holiday brings thoughts of warm weather, BBQ grilling, parades and of course, fireworks. While fireworks are often the highlight of the festivities, the Faribault Fire Department would like to remind you to take proper precautions and stay safe around fireworks.
As you make your plans we recommend to leave the display to the professionals. There are so many great fireworks displays across the state leading up to on the holiday itself. Leaving it to the professionals lets you have all the thrills without the worry. If you do still plan to have your own fireworks display, keep in mind what is legal here in Minnesota. The sale, possession and use of certain non-explosive and non-aerial consumer fireworks is permitted in Minnesota. A few examples of legal fireworks are sparklers, cones and tubes that emit sparks and novelty items like snakes and party poppers.
Consumer fireworks may not be used on public property across the state such as parks, schools, roads and alleys. Anything that flies or explodes is illegal in Minnesota. Explosive and aerial fireworks are prohibited for public sale, possession and use. Just a few examples of illegal fireworks includes firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles and mortars and shells.
During our summer celebrations we have also seen the use of “sky lanterns” or “celebration lanterns”. These require heat from a candle to raise them skyward, where they blow out of sight and land wherever fate drops them. These devises are also illegal in Minnesota because they pose a distinct fire and safety threat to buildings, homes, natural settings and livestock.
“We hope that everyone is able to get out and enjoy this 4th of July holiday,” says Fire Chief Dustin Dienst. “Most important, of course, is the safety of the Faribault community.
