Fireworks banned in tornado debris removal area

(From the City of Joplin)

In the interest of public safety and in consideration of the overwhelming amount of combustible material in the Expedited Debris Removal area of the May 22nd tornado, Fire Chief Mitch Randles has banned any and all fireworks usage in this area. The map that shows this specific area can be found on the City’s website at http://www.joplinmo.org/pdf/expedited_debris_removal_divisions.pdf


In addition to this measure, the Joplin Fire Department encourages citizens to keep safety in mind as they handle fireworks to avoid any problems. The public should also know and adhere to all regulations involving the sale and discharge of fireworks in the City of Joplin to provide a safer environment for their families, neighbors and the community as a whole. Citizens are also encouraged to be a good neighbor and remove any trash or debris from the fireworks they discharge.

As in past years, fireworks may be sold within the City of Joplin on July 1,2,3,4 only; and may be discharged only on July 1, 2, 3, and 4 from the hours of 12 noon to 11 p.m. The City prohibits the sale, possession or discharge of bottle rockets within the City. Any bottle rockets found will be confiscated immediately, and any variances of these rules may result in appropriate fines and confiscation of all possessed fireworks.

It should also be noted that during the set-up and event of Rockin’ 4th of July, the City of Joplin’s Independence Day Celebration at Landreth Park, all private fireworks will be prohibited in Landreth Park, as ordered by the City’s Fire Chief Mitch Randles. The notice is being posted in the interest of safety and is in accordance with the City of Joplin Code (SEC. 58.65 Item C). The order will be in effect on July 3 and 4, 2011for Landreth Park in Joplin.

The notice will be posted at all fireworks stands in the City of Joplin, as well as posted at the main entry points of Landreth Park. The Police Department has set a protocol in handling violations of this order, starting with a verbal warning to the possibility of arrest if repeated violations occur.

Other fireworks safety tips include:

1.Think first and foremost of SAFETY when discharging fireworks.

2.Follow all of the Manufacturer’s instructions.

3.It is recommended that children do not use any firework. However, if they do, always have adult supervision.

4.Only discharge fireworks in an area clear of any obstructions, and that has short grass or a noncombustible surface.

5.Clear the area of any trash, wood piles, yard debris, etc.

6.Make sure that everyone is a safe distance from the discharge area.

7.Have a method of extinguishing devices immediately, i.e. a garden hose, bucket of water, fire extinguisher.

8.DO NOT HANDLE DUDS. They may go off several minutes later.

9.Always use punks to light the firework. Using lighters or matches may cause the firework to ignite prematurely.

10.Do not hold a firework in your hand and light it.

11.Do not discharge fireworks toward or near people, houses or other structures, flammable or combustible items.

For more information about fireworks safety, contact Dale Brooks, Joplin Fire Marshal, at 624-0820 ext. 1307.