Fireworks Sales and Safety | Video

Jessica Roose | 6/26/2012

The 4th of July means fireworks for sale but there is only a short window of time that they can be sold, and the clock starts ticking tomorrow. By law, fireworks can only be sold from June 27 to July 5 and today employees at one local store were busy getting ready.

"A lot of times people are surprised with fireworks. We`ll be working several months beforehand. People are like, `What? You don`t set up a couple of days before?` So there`s actually quite a bit to do, you get the product coming in. Different stores set up and so yeah, today`s kind of the final touches," said Cam Knutson with Memory Fireworks.

Outside, employees were checking inventory and unloading trucks. Inside, they were making sure everything is ready for opening day.

"There`s actually 15 new items this year, which is the most we`ve ever had. We`ve had this series for years, I think the Dakota Series for over 10 years now. So 15 items in one year is something we`re pretty amped about," Knutson said.

Whether you`re lighting off sparklers or a bigger display, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

"You always have to monitor where your children are, because they`re naturally curious. Some big thing are when you light off a firework and it doesn`t go off and they`re considered a dud. Don`t try and re-light it, wait 20 minutes, dowse it with water before you throw it away," said Burleigh County Emergency Manager Mary Senger.

It`s also important to know where you can light off fireworks. They are prohibited in Bismarck and within a half a mile from the city`s borders. Mandan allows them to be used during certain hours on July 2 through 4.

So go ahead and pick up your favorite display but just remember to stay safe and alert when lighting them off.

Senger says it`s always a good idea to have a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby when lighting them off.

Click here for more safety tips.

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