Fireworks safety urged

Fireworks sales began June 20 in New Mexico, and the Las Cruces Fire Department (LCFD) is reminding consumers of general guidelines and safety tips for the upcoming Independence Day holiday.

 By state law, fireworks sales can continue through Thursday, July 6, LCFD said in a news release.

 Fireworks allowed to be purchased and discharged within Las Cruces city limits are ground and hand-held sparkling and smoking devices such as: cone fountains, crackling devices, cylindrical fountains, flitter sparklers, illuminating torches, smoke devices and wheels, the news release said.

Fireworks prohibited for possession, sale or use within city limits are aerial and ground audible devices such as: aerial spinners, helicopters, mines, missile-type rockets, Roman candles, shells, stick-type rockets, chasers and firecrackers.

Since fireworks purchased outside Las Cruces may be prohibited within the city it is advised to possess and discharge fireworks only in the jurisdiction where they were purchased, LCFD said.

Rules and safety guidelines include:

• Purchase fireworks only from a licensed vendor within the municipality where they will be used.
• Fireworks may not be sold to anyone who is intoxicated or under age 16.
• Children should never use fireworks without close adult supervision.
• Keep in mind the hour of usage and be considerate of your neighbors.
• Limit use of fireworks to the outdoors, away from combustibles and only on paved or concrete surfaces or barren land. Fireworks are prohibited on land covered wholly or in part by timber, brush, grass, grain or other flammable vegetation.
• Light only one pyrotechnic at a time and move a safe distance away while it ignites.
• Follow all label directions carefully and use common sense.
• Do not manipulate or otherwise use fireworks in a way that is contrary to the manufacturer’s labeling.
• Have a reliable water source, such as a garden hose, available while discharging fireworks.
• Soak used fireworks in a bucket or tub of water and safely dispose of all spent casings and debris.
• Pet owners are encouraged to secure their dogs and cats indoors when fireworks are discharged.

LCFD said it will schedule increased patrols to target illegal use and possession of fireworks. Citations could be issued, and the confiscation of illegal fireworks is authorized. The penalty for use and/or possession of prohibited fireworks in Las Cruces can include a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 90 days incarceration.

Anyone who witnesses the use of illegal fireworks is asked to call the non-emergency number to Mesilla Valley Dispatch Authority at 575-526-0795. To report an emergency, call 911.