A community fireworks show will be held at Kirsch Municipal Airport on Wednesday, July 4th starting at dark; approximately 10:00 p.m. Parking for the show will be available in the grass area south of the terminal building and the field north of the terminal building. Parking and fireworks spectators will not be allowed on the airport itself. In addition to the community fireworks show, many residents also choose to use their own fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday. While fireworks are allowed in the City of Sturgis under State law, the City's noise ordinance is in effect and may be enforced as it pertains to fireworks displays. During the period from July 3 through July 5, reasonable levels of noise associated with fireworks will be allowed until midnight, at which time the noise ordinance will be enforced for all fireworks-related complaints. Be aware that recent changes to Michigan State law prohibit the use of fireworks on any public property, church property, or another person's property without their express permission and prohibit persons from using any consumer fireworks if they are under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Due to the extremely dry conditions we have been experiencing recently, residents are asked to use caution when lighting off fireworks, which can be a potential fire hazard. This is particularly true for airborne fireworks that could cause fires on surrounding properties, buildings, or structures. Necessary precautions and responsible adult supervision to prevent fire risks as well as injury should be a priority. Some basic fireworks safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety (NCFS) include: • Use fireworks outdoors only. • Obey local laws. (Michigan law has recently changed; be aware of what is legal and what is not). • Always have water handy. (A hose or bucket). • Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them. • Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water. • Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses. • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter." • Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type. • Do not ever use homemade fireworks of illegal explosives: They can kill you! Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.
