Council Bluffs residents will be able to shoot fireworks this Fourth of July Season. Use of fireworks is permitted this year on July 1, 2, and 3 from noon to 10 p.m., and on July 4 from noon to 11 p.m. The fireworks ordinance from the City of Council Bluffs states:
- Fireworks may only be possessed, used, or discharged by a person of 18 years of age or older ( Class I or Class II)
- Novelty fireworks may be discharged by individuals 5 years of age and older when supervised by an adult
- Fireworks shall be used on an individual’s property or that of a consenting property owner. No fireworks shall be discharged in C-3/ Commercially District or C-4/ Commercial Districts
- Fireworks shall not be discharged within 50 feet of another person or structure
- If a burn ban has been issued by Pottawattamie County due to drought conditions, no person should discharge consumers fireworks at any time
- Penalty: Any person in violation of these ordinances shall be charged accordingly and assessed a fine not less than $250.00
Did you know fireworks litter contains a variety of toxic pollutants? Please clean up all remnants and dispose of them safely. Fireworks injuries can be prevented. These tips for usage and disposal are designed to help keep you safe this holiday season.
When using fireworks:
- Always obey all laws and use fireworks safely
- Always obey safety barriers around a fireworks show and stay 500 feet from the launch site
- Always read the labels and instructions before using fireworks at home
- Never light fireworks in your hand
- Never light fireworks near your face
- Never point fireworks toward someone or something
- Always point the fireworks toward the sky
- Always wear protective eyewear
- Never launch fireworks from a metal or glass container, instead light only on smooth, flat surfaces
- Don’t use fireworks inside at any time
- Always light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly
- Don’t get too close to the fireworks
- Don’t dry to relight a “dud” firework
- Don’t throw sparklers, even when not lit
- Remain standing when using sparklers
- Never modify or use homemade fireworks
- Don’t touch fireworks debris, it may still be hot
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix
- Pets and fireworks do not mix. Place your pets safely indoors at home during the 4th of July holiday
- Don’t allow children to use fireworks or sparklers
- Always supervise teens when using fireworks
- Teach children the importance of fireworks safety and set a good example
- Always soak used fireworks in water before throwing in a trash bag
When disposing of fireworks:
- Completely submerge fireworks in a large bucket of water and soak overnight
- Double wrap the completely soaked fireworks in plastic wrap or two plastic bags so they do not dry out
- Place the double-bagged fireworks in the household trash or take them to your local landfill
- Contact your local fire department or landfill as other disposal options may be available in your community
- Never put un-soaked fireworks in the garbage as hey pose a fire/explosion hazard to people and property
If an accident happens:
- Call 911
- If clothing catches on fire, stop, drop and roll until it is out
- Cool burn with water for short time. Never use ice on a burn, it can make it worse
- Cover burn with clean, dry cloth or sheet
- See a physician