Lots of people like to celebrate the 4th of July holiday by shooting off fireworks.

Jefferson Fire Chief Jack Williams reminds Jefferson residents that consumer fireworks are illegal within city limits. However, those in the rural portions of Greene County are allowed to shoot off fireworks. He advises to be mindful of how each firework should be handled.

“Make sure that you’re reading the directions on them. I don’t think there’s a firework out there other than a sparkler that you’re supposed to hold in your hand. So just read the directions and make sure you’re lighting them the way the directions say. And then with the drought that we’re currently in, make sure that we’re not lighting them off to where the hot ambers can fall into taller grass or fields that are dried out.”

Williams recommends to have a water source nearby to extinguish a small fire, but adds if it looks to be spreading quickly, call the fire department for assistance.