TFVFD offers Fireworks tips

Three Forks Fire Department Training Captain Charles Eastty can remember responding to a call on the Fourth of July where a stray a firework went through an open window and started a house fire. Luckily, he said they were able to control the fire before any major damage was done.

With the holiday approaching, Eastty said one of the primary challenges the department faces on the holiday is an increase in emergency calls during the evening.

“Historically, the holiday sees a spike in firework-related incidents, from small dumpster fires, wildland fires, to structure fires. Typically, our volunteers expect to respond to multiple calls that night. In the past, we have consistently responded to the ponds for the inevitable dumpster fire,” Eastty said.

In the City of Three Forks, fireworks can only be set off on Thursday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to midnight, Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

According to City Officials, these times will be contingent upon fire conditions and the recommendation of the Three Forks Fire Department’s command team.

City Ordinances prohibit setting off fireworks toward or from any motor vehicle or in the vicinity of other people or animals in a manner that may expose them to the risk of injury. Fireworks are also prohibited in the business district on Main Street in Three Forks.

City officials remind residents to pick up and dispose of the remnants properly and use the Bellach Park dumpster (see tips below).

According to Gallatin County Communications Coordinator Whitney Bermes, there is no county-wide fireworks ordinance, but the County Commissioners can temporarily ban fireworks if they find the circumstances warrant it.

In July 2021, due to historically dry levels, drought conditions, and a lack of firefighting resources regionally, the Gallatin County Commission passed an emergency ordinance banning burning and other activities that increase the risk of wildfire.

Bermes added no such temporary ban is in place at this time.

Broadwater County Sheriff Nick Rauser said no county ordinance deals with fireworks, but there is one in the city limits of Townsend.

Rauser added they do encounter some fireworks-related calls.

“It depends on the year. If it’s a dryer year, we get more calls. We don’t get too many out in the county however, unless someone is not being safe,” he said.

Montana State statutes allow fireworks to be sold from June 24 through Friday, July 5, 2024.

TIPS FROM THE TFVFD

Here are a few tips to prevent a visit from your local fire department this 4th of July.

Use Fireworks in Clear, Open Areas: Always light fireworks in a large, open area away from buildings, dry grass, trees, and other flammable materials. Ensure there is a safe distance between the fireworks and spectators. Avoid using fireworks in windy conditions, as sparks can easily spread to nearby flammable objects.

Keep Water and Fire Extinguishers Nearby: Before you begin your fireworks display, have a bucket of water, a garden hose, and a fire extinguisher readily available. In case of a fire, douse the flames immediately with water or use the fire extinguisher to control and put out any fires.

Proper Disposal of Fireworks: After the fireworks have been used, soak them in water before disposing of them. This ensures that any remaining sparks or embers are fully extinguished, reducing the risk of starting a dumpster fire. Never attempt to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks; instead, soak them in water and dispose of them properly. If you do encounter a fire, report it early, before it turns into a bigger emergency. Our firefighters will be standing by and ready for any emergency this Independence Day!