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Topic: Headline News
Enjoy the fireworks, stay safe
Published Online Jun 27, 2012 - 01:44 PM
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July fourth is quickly approaching and several local fireworks stands have opened. Gallatin Police Chief Mark Richards would like to take this opportunity to wish the citizens of Gallatin a safe and happy fourth of July and to point out the ordinances for shooting fireworks within the city.

Section 210.720 of the Gallatin City Code prohibits fireworks to be fired within the city except between the hours of 8 a.m. and 12 midnight July 4. It also states that no fireworks shall be fired within 200 feet of any church, school, nursing home or gas station or fired from or at a vehicle or at any person.

Here are some safety tips to keep you’re holiday safe.

· Always read and FOLLOW directions on the label.

· Always have an adult present to supervise your fireworks fun.

· Always buy from a reliable fireworks dealer.

· Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.

· Always use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass and trees.

· Always have water handy. A water hose close by is excellent.

·Always store your fireworks safely, preferably in a closed box, away from any source of accidental ignition.

· Always store your fireworks in a cool, dry place.

· Always only light one item at a time.

· Never try to re-light malfunctioning fireworks.

· Never give ANY firework item to small children.

· Never throw or point fireworks at another person.

· Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

· Never shoot (fire) fireworks from metal or glass containers.

· Never experiment with, modify or attempt to make your own fireworks.

· PETS can be frightened by loud noises and bright flashes. Keep your pets indoors while enjoying your fireworks.

In addition to local fireworks laws illegal explosives have been outlawed by federal law since 1966. The laws against such dangerous devices are enforced by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF), and the mere possession of such items can result in your being federally prosecuted with substantial monetary penalties and jail time attached to a conviction. In addition to the criminal aspect of possession of such items, they are very dangerous, and you subject yourself and those around you to severe injury if you use these items. Illegal explosives are not fireworks. They can contain hundreds times more pyrotechnic loading than the legal firecrackers. For instance, by definition and federal law, a legal firecracker can contain no more than 50 milligrams of pyrotechnic composition. A full-dose aspirin typically contains 325 mg. of composition, therefore the pyrotechnic composition in a legal firecracker is actually less than one sixth (1/6) the size of a full dose aspirin. Compare this to what is commonly referred to as an M-80, which contains approximately 7 grams of powder, about 140 times the legal limit. M-100s contain about 20 grams of powder, about 400 times the legal limit. Other unsafe items include cherry bombs and sparkler bombs.

Officers will be patrolling and enforcing the firework laws in Gallatin . Violations could result in fireworks being confiscated.

Please have a fun and safe holiday. If you have any questions regarding fireworks or any other ordinances you can contact the Gallatin Police Department at 660-663-3580.



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