As the Fourth of July weekend begins, local officials offer reminders on how to be safe while enjoying patriotic festivities.
The city of Holts Summit shared information on how to safely celebrate. The lack of rain or moisture throughout the region for several days -- combined with high temperatures -- has resulted in an increased risk of fire from fireworks.
Holts Summit officials recommend keeping in mind your surroundings, how close you are to your neighbors or other potential dangers. They also recommend having an adequate water source nearby in case there is a fire that needs to be put out quickly.
Discarding used fireworks into a bucket of water further reduces the risk of accidental fires.
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety published several basic safety practices while engaging with fireworks.
• Purchase fireworks only from a properly licensed retailer.
• Do not attempt to re-light fireworks that did not work properly.
• Keep young children away from fireworks.
• Do not throw or point fireworks at others, do not put any part of your body over fireworks while lighting.
• Do not use fireworks while consuming alcohol.
More information can be found on the Missouri Division of Fire Safety's website.
The ordinances in Mid-Missouri cities vary by location.
In Holts Summit, it is legal to discharge fireworks within city limits from 1-11 p.m. Friday through Sunday, from 10 a.m.-midnight Monday, and from 6-10 p.m. Tuesday through July 10. Fireworks become illegal to discharge July 11, and become legal again Dec. 20.
Fireworks are allowed to be discharged in Fulton from 1-11 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday. Fireworks can be bought and sold from through July 10, which is what is allowed by state statute.
It is prohibited within Jefferson City to manufacture or sell fireworks. The discharge of fireworks is also prohibited, except for those who receive a permit from the Jefferson City Fire Department at least 15 days in advance of the fireworks display.
Ashland prohibits discharging fireworks within city limits per a city ordinance.
Russellville allows fireworks to be shot within the city limits all day until midnight on the Fourth of July.
St. Martins allows fireworks to be shot within the city limits from Sunday through Tuesday.
Wardsville allows fireworks to be shot off between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. from today through Thursday.
Cole County ordinance states fireworks are allowed to be shot off throughout the day in unincorporated areas, but they must cease at 11 p.m. and can resume at 9 a.m. However, on the Fourth of July holiday, there is an exception. Two times a year-- on the Fourth of July holiday and New Year's Eve -- there is no 11 p.m. enforcement. The time is pushed until 1 a.m. and can resume at 9 a.m.