Bossier police offer holiday fireworks safety tips

The Bossier City Police Department has advice for those of you planning to celebrate Christmas and New Year's with fireworks.

Here are some things you need to keep in mind to help prevent injuries:

• Always buy fireworks from established and reputable retail outlets. Such retailers are not allowed to operate in Bossier City without a permit issued by the Bossier City Fire Department.
• Children should never be given fireworks to handle alone. Responsible adult supervision is a must.
• Never shoot, aim or throw fireworks at people or animals.
• Keep a charged garden hose and a bucket of water handy for emergencies. A bucket of water is ideal for soaking used sparklers.
• Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have failed to discharge. Douse with water and wait 15 minutes before properly disposing.
• Be aware of dry conditions. Never ignite fireworks on or near areas of dry vegetation. Doing so could easily ignite fires.

Bossier City's fireworks ordinance allows fireworks to be set off within the city limits from Dec. 23 through Jan. 1 between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. except on New Year's Eve when fireworks may be discharged until 12:30 a.m. 

Persons who discharge fireworks outside the designated dates and time periods can be subject to fines of up to $500 or up to 60 days in jail.

Police also advise residents not to discharge firearms into the air as part of their upcoming New Year's celebration. Not only is it illegal but it is also very dangerous and potentially deadly.