Meridian Fire Department Fourth of July Safety Tips

Can you believe that the Fourth of July is two weeks away!?! This year is going by so fast. While we gear up for this always exciting holiday, there are some safety tip reminders that the Meridian Fire Department wanted to pass along.

First, Chief Niemeyer wants to urge families to consider attending an event, rather than setting off their own fireworks. The Meridian Independence Day Celebration is at Storey Park on Wednesday, July 4th from 3 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. And if you do plan on using fireworks at home, the fireworks must be legal and used with caution.

“A fire resulting in the misuse or illegal use of fireworks could result in the responsible party being financially liable for the first response and any damages. It is the responsibility of all of us to keep our neighborhoods safe. Please help us in meeting that mission,” said Chief Niemeyer.

Our local fire officials have also released a do's and don'ts list to ensure you have a safe Fourth of July celebration.

• DO purchase your fireworks from a reliable seller.
• DO have an adult present to supervise all fireworks activity.
• DO inspect fireworks carefully before using.
• DO have a fire extinguisher or water nearby when setting off fireworks.
• DO ignite fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, vehicles and shrubbery.
• DO shoot fireworks off of a hard paved surface in a wide open area.
• DO keep spectators 25' to 100' away from the firing site.
• DO light fireworks one at a time, wear eye protection, without your body over the fireworks.
• DO step out of the way quickly after lighting fireworks.
• DO dispose of fireworks properly, by dousing them in water immediately.
• DO store unused fireworks in a cool dry place.

• DON'T give fireworks to small children.
• DON'T point or throw fireworks at another person.
• DON'T hold lit fireworks in your hand.
• DON'T carry fireworks in your pocket.
• DON'T set off fireworks in a large crowd of people.
• DON'T use fireworks by dry grass or flammable materials.
• DON'T experiment with homemade fireworks or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• DON'T shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• DON'T attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks.
• DON'T attempt to fix fireworks that have not gone off or have misfired.
• DON'T use fireworks that appear to have gotten wet then dried, or have loose fuses, or appear old or show any other signs of mishandling.

Here is a list of all the family-friendly events going on in the Treasure Valley to celebrate the Fourth of July.