Firework safety tips and rules to follow for Fourth of July

With the Fourth of July just days away, it’s a good time to remind people how to be safe when handling fireworks.

The firework business has been booming in stores like Kracklin’ Kirk’s in Denton.

Employees say now is a good time to refresh your memory on proper firework safety.

“It’s good to have a bucket of water nearby, so after you shoot off maybe a fountain or a multi–shot cake, dose it good with water and have a garden hose handy,” said Craig Hamre, with Kracklin’ Kirk’s Fireworks.

Keeping a safe distance from potential hazards is a necessity when lighting them off.

“As far as houses or vegetation, get some good distance, 100 feet or more would be best if possible,” said Hamre.

An Omaha man was accidentally killed in a fireworks incident Sunday night.

He was found to be setting off illegal fireworks.

Following the rules is important to staying safe, and so is refraining from drinking when handling and lighting fireworks.

“Alcohol and fireworks do not mix, if you’re lighting fireworks, don’t drink alcohol. Just be safe, don’t light fireworks when you’re standing over them. Stand back, and keep an eye on the kids, know where the kids are when you’re lighting your fireworks,” said Hamre.

It’s important to remember that in Lincoln, you can only buy and set off fireworks on July third and fourth.

It’s one reason why many people drive to Denton, located just outside of Lincoln, for theirs.

Statewide, the rules differ than those within city limits.

“It’s important to be sure to check your local city ordinances just to see what the guidelines are for your city or town,” said Hamre.

Fireworks ordinance Lincoln, Nebraska:

“It shall be unlawful for any person to discharge, explode, or use any permissible fire- works within the City of Lincoln except from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on July 3 and from 8:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on July 4 of each year.”

It is illegal to transport illegal fireworks into Nebraska.

Only those 16 or older can possess and shoot off fireworks; those 12 and older can use fireworks if they are directly supervised by someone 19 or older.

If your neighbor is shooting off their fireworks outside the permissible dates or times, do not call 911; use the Lincoln Police Department non–emergency line at (402) 441-6000.

Fines in Lincoln range between $100-$500.

Sky lanterns, bottle rockets, sky rockets and other similar fireworks that project into the air from a stick or wire are banned in Lincoln.

Also banned for personal use are large fireworks meant for public display and ground firecrackers with more than 50 milligrams of explosive composition.

Outside of Lincoln and other city limits, fireworks regulations are less strict in Lancaster County and more similar to state rules.

However, if you’re shooting off fireworks at late hours and disturbing your neighbors, officers can issue citations for disturbing the peace.