As Independence Day approaches local emergency services and fireworks vendors would like to remind area residents of the hazards associated with fireworks products.

Fireworks have become an annual part of the July 4th American tradition. Annually, they provide entertainment for thousands of local children and adults alike. Generally however, fireworks can not be considered safe, especially near children. We hope you will enjoy the fun and excitement of your fireworks, and that you will do so in a safe and responsible manner.

The use of fireworks is prohibited within the City limits of Troy. The Troy Police Department will respond to any reported use of fireworks. The responding officers will attempt to locate the persons using fireworks and depending on the circumstances, any subjects found to be igniting fireworks illegally may be charged with a crime. The officers may also confiscate fireworks that have been used illegally, as evidence.

Respect all fireworks, because if used improperly, they can be dangerous. Fireworks are great fun, but they burn very hot and are intended to be handled only by adults. Each year our local Police, Fire, and Ambulances respond to numerous calls involving the misuse of fireworks. Please follow all local laws regarding the possession and use of fireworks, and use good common sense. Read all directions, cautions, labels, and warnings on each individual firework item to understand the product’s performance and hazards associated with the use of the item.

To insure the safety of both the spectators and those discharging the fireworks, we recommend you obey the following general fireworks safety measures:

• NEVER LET CHILDREN HANDLE, PLAY WITH, OR LIGHT ANY FIREWORKS. ONLY ADULTS SHOULD HANDLE AND LIGHT THE FIREWORKS.

• FIREWORKS AND ALCOHOL DO NOT MIX.
  
• OBEY ALL LAWS PRETAINING TO THE USE OF FIREWORKS
  
• USE FIREWORKS ON A HARD SURFACE.
  
• USE IN A CLEAR, OPEN AREA.
  
• USE CARE IN LIGHTING THE FIREWORKS.
  
• HAVE WATER AVAILABLE IN CASE OF FIRE.
  
• MONITOR WINDY CONDITIONS.
  
• STORE YOUR FIREWORKS IN A SAFE SECURE LOCATION
  
• FIREWORKS ARE FOR OUTDOOR USE ONLY.
  
• WEAR SAFETY GLASSES.

The City of Troy, the Lincoln County Fire Protection District #1, the Lincoln County Ambulance District, and Static LLC Flaming Balls Fireworks on John Deere Drive in Moscow Mills, wants you and your family to have a safe and enjoyable experience with your fireworks.