Fireworks zone set for Fourth

SANDPOINT — Nothing exemplifies the spirit of Fourth of July like fireworks, but local safety officials say prudence and common sense are needed in order to avoid dangerous holiday mishaps.

A limited type of fireworks can be legally purchased and used within city limits, and those can only be used from June 23 to July 5, said Fire Chief Robert Tyler.

According to Idaho Code, which Sandpoint defers to in matters of fireworks, only “non aerial common fireworks” can be used inside the city. Those include ground spinners, fountains, sparklers and smoke devices, none of which can travel outside a 15-foot diameter or reach a height of 20 feet.

City officials are not currently monitoring sales at local fireworks stands, but Tyler doesn’t doubt some are selling products that do not comply with code.

“I’d like to move in the direction in the future of having the stands that sell fireworks within the city be in line with state guidelines …,” he said.

Even legal fireworks can be dangerous, and Police Chief Mark Lockwood said those using the fireworks, especially children, should do so with caution.

“Their parents should be with them when they’re lighting anything off,” he said. “They should have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher available. They should do it in a very safe place that doesn’t have flammables around it. It’s just a common sense type of approach, pretty much.”

Tyler’s biggest concern with banned fireworks is the potential fire threat, and he said police officers will confiscate any illegal fireworks they find.

Sandpoint’s only sanctioned Fourth of July fireworks display takes place near City Beach at dusk. To avoid potential injuries, Tyler is setting up a 600 foot perimeter around the launch area. The fallout zone will be marked with buoys, and the  display will not begin until everyone, including boaters, is clear of the zone.

All boaters who moor their vessels at the Wind Bag Marina are advised to remove their boats from the fallout zone, and those who choose to leave their boats in the marina do so at their own risk, according to Tyler.