As the Fourth of July approaches and consumer fireworks are being sold around the state, including in Perry, emergency personnel reminds the public to exercise caution when discharging fireworks.

Perry Fire Chief Chris Hinds says one of the most important safety tips for fireworks is proper supervision. “The best thing is to be well-supervised. Use it in wide-open spaces, so if anything goes wrong you’re not up against a building or something that is potentially a fire hazard.” Additionally, he says to make sure fireworks are stored properly when not being used. He adds that fireworks accidents can cause permanent disfigurement.

In addition to safety tips, Chamber of Commerce Director Bob Wilson reminds people there is an ordinance limiting fireworks use in Perry to only the Fourth of July. “Fireworks are only allowed between 4 and 11 p.m. that day. So let’s use our heads, they’re not allowed down at the park. I love responsible fireworks, but let’s not take them down to Pattee Park. I personally don’t want to have to run around too much and chase people away. So just listen, and take them to your private property and use them responsibly.”

Other rules laid out in the ordinance include: people must be 18 or older to discharge fireworks; they can’t be under the influence of drugs or over the legal limit for alcohol; and they can’t be fired within 200 yards of a hospital or nursing home facility. Anyone in breach of the ordinance will face a $500 fine.