Celebrate the 4th of July Safely

June 27, 2024

Firework stands across the Treasure Valley opened on June 23, and the Boise Fire Department is again reminding people to be safe when using fireworks to celebrate. Every year Boise Fire responds to multiple fires started by fireworks. Last year on July 4th, Boise Fire responded to 114 calls for service, and of those calls, 25 were fires caused by fireworks. If you plan on setting off your own fireworks, please review the safety information below detailing where and when it’s okay to light off fireworks.  We also encourage you to attend the City of Boise public fireworks display at Ann Morrison Park on the 4th of July.

“The safety of our community is a responsibility we all share. We encourage all of you to celebrate the Fourth of July safely,” Boise Fire Marshal Mike Bisagno said. “Every year we see fires and injuries because of improper use and disposal of fireworks, or illegal fireworks. Our message is simple; keep it legal, keep it safe, and keep it out of the Boise Foothills.”

Ban for Fireworks in Wildland-Urban Interface area

All fireworks, including non-aerial common fireworks, shall not be used or possessed in the wildland-urban interface area per Section 4105.2 of the City of Boise code. The blue area marked in the map below shows where you cannot light off any type of fireworks within Boise City Limits. View the interactive map to see if your property falls within this.

Blue on map indicates area where fireworks are banned.
Blue on map indicates area where fireworks are banned.

Safety Tips for Fireworks

In Boise City, it is lawful to sell and use "Safe and Sane Fireworks" beginning June 23 until midnight July 5.

Dangerous and Prohibited Fireworks

These examples are NOT considered "safe and sane" fireworks:

  1. Fireworks containing explosive material that will burn or deflagrate when ignited.  (Examples include, but are not limited to, firecrackers, cherry bombs, M-80s.)
  2. Fireworks that leave the ground of their own accord or fly when tossed into the air. Examples include, but are not limited to, skyrockets, bottle rockets, mortar shells, Roman candles.
  3. Fireworks designed for ground or near ground use that travel outside of a fifteen (15) foot diameter circle.
  4. Fireworks designed for ground or near ground use that, as a means of propulsion, emit showers or sparks longer than twelve (12) inches.
  5. Fireworks designed for use from a stationary position that emit sparks, showers, or flaming balls, vertically more than twenty (20) feet; or from which discharged material falls beyond a twenty (20) foot diameter circle.

Before Lighting Fireworks

  1. Check to make sure you are in an area where it’s legal to light off fireworks. Fireworks are prohibited in the Boise foothills (see additional information above).
  2. Use legal fireworks, available at licensed outlets. If you accidentally start a fire you can be sentenced to jail time and ordered to pay restitution for putting out the fire.
  3. Store fireworks out of the reach of children.
  4. Always read and follow label directions.
  5. Place pets indoors; they may be easily frightened by fireworks.
  6. Always have water handy (garden hose or bucket of water).

When Lighting Fireworks

  1. A responsible adult should always light fireworks.
  2. Keep matches and lighters away from children.
  3. Use outdoors only.
  4. Light only one firework at a time and move away quickly.
  5. Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
  6. Always remember, do not throw fireworks or hold them in your hand.

After Lighting Fireworks

  1. Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water.
  2. Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly.
  3. Never re-light a "dud" firework (wait 15-20 minutes and then soak it with water).

Leave 911 open for emergencies

  1. Call the non-emergency number, 208-377-6790, for firework complaints.
  2. Be prepared to give the exact address of the complaint. Please be patient if the lines are busy.

Sign up for Emergency Alerts

CodeRED is used to keep you informed of incidents and events that can immediately impact your safety. You can sign up for CodeRED Alerts through Ada County dispatch here.

Contact: Boise Fire/BPD Media Relations

(208) 570-6780 | bpdmedialine@cityofboise.org

© 2024 City of Boise. All rights reserved.

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