With today being the 4th of July, everyone is reminded of some safety measures to take when shooting off fireworks.

According to Perry Fire Chief Grason Hill, people should distance themselves somewhere between 100 and 150 feet away from watching or lighting fireworks. He notes that people need to pay close attention shooting them off in residential areas, keeping in mind where the remnants will fall and stresses never to point fireworks in the direction of someone’s house. Hill tells Raccoon Valley Radio that he hasn’t personally responded to any reports of injuries in the past, but is hoping that people are considerate to others.

“If you have neighbors that have pets, be respectful of them because the noise does frighten animals a lot. Sensitive individuals, be mindful of your neighbors like that (or) people with PTSD. You really have to think it’s not just about you trying to impress your friends, but you got to think about elderly people and animals, just they don’t go together with fireworks.”

Hill advises that children should not be in close proximity with fireworks, or even handle sparklers without constant adult supervision. He mentions it’s not safe to shoot fireworks in a dry field or in places where flammable materials may be. With the new state law in effect, people are allowed to shoot off fireworks today from 9am to 11pm.