Greeley Fire Department officials want to remind residents about the importance of fireworks safety leading into the Fourth of July holiday.
“If you are going to enjoy fireworks as part of your celebration, we ask that you be prepared, be responsible, and be safe,” said Fire Marshal Bob Fries. “Fireworks can be exciting and enjoyable, but they can also be dangerous. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending one of the professional displays scheduled this year.”
“Improper use of fireworks not only presents significant risk to our citizens and our response personnel, but it also presents significant risk to our community as a whole,” said Fire Chief Brian Kuznik. “With the increase in fire danger and in the interest of public safety, the Greeley Fire Department urges all citizens to think twice before lighting fireworks this year.”
City of Greeley Fireworks Ordinance
On June 7, 2022, Greeley City Council voted to amend the city ordinance related to the sale, possession, and use of fireworks in the city.
Effective June 15, 2022, this change increases fines, up to $1,000. This fine also applies to people who willingly allow others to possess or use illegal fireworks on their property—not just the people setting them off.
What fireworks are allowed?
Permissible fireworks are non-explosive and are not intended to leave the ground—such as fountains, ground spinners, illuminating torches, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellants, trick noise makers, and tube devices.
Those who sell fireworks in the City of Greeley must be permitted to do so through the State of Colorado and the City of Greeley. To find more information and a complete list of permissible fireworks, and to learn more about the new ordinance changes, go to greeleypd.com/fireworks.
What fireworks are illegal?
Fireworks that explode or leave the ground are illegal everywhere in the City of Greeley. Examples of illegal fireworks include bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, cherry bombs, shells and rockets, M-80s, etc. Those who possess, sell, or use illegal fireworks are subject to fines of up to $1,000. Only buy fireworks from a licensed fireworks retail store in Colorado.
Respect your neighbors!
Be conscientious of your neighbors and remember the noise, lights, and smoke may be alarming or disruptive to some, so choose your location and time of day appropriately.
Hundreds of thousands of veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly known as PTSD. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, loud blasts and flashing lights can sometimes induce panic attacks.
Many veterans plan to enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July and support the patriotic displays their cities provide through an organized fireworks show. However, it’s the unexpected use of fireworks, especially during the middle of the night, that can trigger emotional and traumatic responses for veterans.
Protect your pets!
The Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest times of the year for animal shelters because so many pets go missing following fireworks in the area. To keep your pets safe this holiday, follow these tips provided by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Safety Tips for Legal Fireworks:
- Only responsible and sober adults should be lighting fireworks. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, and always have children be a safe distance away.
- Never place any part of your body directly over the fireworks device when lighting the fuse.
- Ensure that you have a ten-foot diameter clear area, mineral soil or pavement, around your fireworks. Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never try to re-light a “Dud”, wait ten minutes then place the Dud in a pail of water.
- All fireworks should be soaked in a pail of water before discarding, we recommend overnight soaking.
- Never place fireworks into a garbage can until they have been thoroughly wet down.
- Always have a shovel and water readily available to extinguish any fires you may notice
- Call 911 immediately if a fire cannot be immediately extinguished.
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