Use Caution When Shooting Fireworks in Dry Conditions

South Dakota Department of Agriculture

News Release

 

For Immediate Release: December 28, 2011

Media Contact: Beth Hermanson, 605-381-7232

 

Use Caution When Shooting Fireworks in Dry Conditions

 

RAPID CITY, S.D. - The South Dakota Division of Wildland Fire Suppression is asking everyone to take extra precautions to prevent wildfires over the holiday weekend. The possibility of fireworks displays causing fast moving wildfires has increased significantly for this time of year because of warm, dry conditions and lack of recent moisture. The grassland fire danger is expected to be in the high or above category.

 

State Wildland Fire Coordinator Joe Lowe is asking residents and visitors to the state to use extreme precautions when they are shooting fireworks. The purchase and discharge of fireworks is prohibited within the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District and many municipalities.

 

This is the first year for a new law that allows for the sale and discharge of fireworks from December 28 through January 1st.

 

Agriculture is South Dakota's No. 1 industry, generating nearly $21 billion in annual economic activity and employing over 143,000 South Dakotans. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture's mission is to promote, protect, preserve and improve this industry for today and tomorrow. Visit us online at http://sdda.sd.gov or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

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