Rapid City Fire Department officials say current conditions are prime for wildfire, and residents should be extra careful when discharging fireworks. State Fire Marshal Paul Merriman says all South Dakotans should be cautious. He says even when vegetation is green, it can still ignite.
“That’s the biggest thing probably, picking your location where you’re going to shoot fireworks,” Merriman says. “A gravel parking lot let’s say verses a heavily vegetated area or area with trees or other exposures such as structures and things of that nature.”
Merriman says fireworks may be discharged through July 10th in South Dakota. He says some communities may enforce stricter limits, so it’s important to check local regulations. Fireworks are illegal in the Black Hills National Forest. He says use common sense tips: don’t allow children to play with fireworks, keep spectators at a safe distance, and keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby.