(West Fargo, ND) -- The West Fargo Fire Department reminds residents to practice fireworks safety this Independence Day.

"Fireworks are extremely dangerous and can cause life-altering injuries and fires when used improperly," said the department in a statement released to WDAY Radio. "Residents should practice extreme caution and abide by all City ordinances when setting off any fireworks."

Part of the ordinances read:

Any individual who is at least 12 years of age may use, explode or possess any retail fireworks within the limits of the City of West Fargo, commencing July 4th at 8 a.m. and ending July 4th at 11:59 p.m., and commencing December 31st at 8 p.m. and ending January 1st at 1 a.m. The individual use, explosion, or possession of fireworks at any other time during the year is prohibited.

No person shall ignite, discharge or use fireworks on publicly owned or controlled property, including but not limited to, park property, city or county property, school property or federally owned property without prior written authorization from the governing board or authorized representative of the public entity, which owns or controls the property. This includes public roadways, right of ways and sidewalks.

Other tips from West Fargo Fire include:

The use of sky lanterns is illegal and all other fireworks shall be limited to a 1.4G firework. Regulations can be found on the City of West Fargo website under Chapter 12, section 12-0711.

Any complaints will be handled with the West Fargo Police Department and can result in fireworks taken away with the possibility of a fine. To report a complaint, you're asked to please call (701) 515-5500. To report an emergency, call 911.

Email: Click Here to Email Us

Address: 2852 Thunder Road South Fargo, ND 58104