Anchorage Daily News

While there is no ban in effect against fireworks in Houston, state forestry regional manager John See said there is "absolutely" a fire danger throughout Southcentral. He cited the Anchorage fire of this week as proof that conditions are ripe for starting a fire and causing damage to land and property.

He also said foresters will actively pursue civil cases to pay for the costs associated with putting out a fire. "That alone should be enough to make them pause before they light the fuse."

WHERE TO BUY

Fireworks for personal use can purchased legally at four licensed outlets in the Valley, all in Houston: Gorilla, Little Gorilla, TNT and Black Cat.

THE RULES

• Private use of fireworks is prohibited in all of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough except on private property within Houston city limits with the permission of the property owner.

• Use of fireworks within the City of Houston is prohibited by state law when the Alaska Division of Forestry issues bans on burning.

• Fireworks are prohibited in the cities of Palmer and Wasilla.

• It is illegal for a person to discharge fireworks on any borough, state or federal land.

• Penalties for illegal use of fireworks include fines of up to $500 per violation. Also, a sentence from 10 days to six months in jail could be handed town.

• Public display of fireworks may be allowed in the borough if a permit has been issued. Permits for public displays require safety precautions and insurance provisions.

PERSONAL SAFETY

• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.

• Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.

• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.

• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

• Light one item at a time, then move back quickly.

• Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, directions and a warning label, do not light it.

• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

• Avoid buying fireworks that come in brown paper packaging, as this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional shows and could pose a danger to consumers.

• Supervise children around fireworks at all times.

• Adults should always supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers have caused more injuries to children under 5 than any other type of firework. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees -- hot enough to melt some metals.

• Avoid the combination of alcohol, drugs and fireworks.

• Consider the weather conditions. The Division of Forestry office monitors weather conditions and can advise if it is too dry to use fireworks.

-- Mat-Su Borough, Department of Natural Resources, State Fire Marshal's Office

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