Officials remind you of basic 4th of July safety tips

(City of Joplin) — As Independence Day approaches, citizens need to keep safety in mind as they handle fireworks to avoid any problems. To provide a safer environment for families, neighbors, and visitors to our community, the City reminds everyone to adhere to all regulations involving the sale and discharge of fireworks in Joplin. We also remind citizens to be good neighbors and remove any trash or debris from the fireworks they discharge.

Fireworks may only be sold within the City of Joplin on July 1, 2, 3, and 4. They may be discharged only on July 1, 2, 3, and 4 from 12 Noon to 11 p.m. in Joplin.

The City prohibits the sale, possession, or discharge of bottle rockets within the City.  Any bottle rockets found will be confiscated immediately. Any variances of these rules may result in appropriate fines and confiscation of all possessed fireworks. Chinese lanterns are also banned from use within Joplin.

The City also encourages residents to clean up their shoot sites to eliminate debris and trash within our community. Fireworks should be cooled before they are disposed of. To help ensure items are extinguished, remaining fireworks barrels can be sprayed with water or dunked in a bucket before disposing of them.

Other fireworks safety tips include:

• Think first and foremost of SAFETY when discharging fireworks.
• Follow all the manufacturer’s instructions.
• It is recommended that children do not use any fireworks. However, if they do, always have adult supervision.
• Only discharge fireworks in an area clear of any obstructions and has short grass or a noncombustible surface.
• Clear the area of any trash, wood piles, yard debris, etc.
• Make sure that everyone is at a safe distance from the discharge area.
• Have a method of extinguishing devices immediately, i.e., a garden hose, a bucket of water, or a fire extinguisher.
• DO NOT HANDLE DUDS. They may go off several minutes later.
• Always use punks to light the firework. Using lighters or matches may cause the fireworks to ignite prematurely.
• Do not hold a firework in your hand and light it.
• Do not discharge fireworks toward or near people, houses, or other structures, flammable or combustible items.