As one of the most celebrated and certainly the most explosive holiday of the year approaches, the Kalispell Fire Department reminds residents that the use of fireworks within city limits is tightly regulated.

In fact, according to city code, only “properly qualified” people are allowed to set off fireworks, and only then if they have a permit from the fire marshal (although sparklers are allowed).

Effectively, fireworks except for sparklers are banned in Kalispell.

“Each July Fourth, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks,” a fire department news release reads. “Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks — devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death. The National Fire Protection Agency urges the public to avoid the use of consumer fireworks and instead to enjoy displays of fireworks conducted by trained professionals.”

In Whitefish, fireworks can only be sold from noon to 8 p.m. on July 2, 3, and 4, and may only be set off between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. on the same days. In Columbia Falls, fireworks may not be sold or discharged, although they may be possessed by anyone over 18.

State law bans the sale and use of sky rockets, Roman candles, bottle rockets and sparkler bombs, as well as the use of any fireworks on national forest, national park or state park lands.

County law adds public lands — such as county parks and boat launches — to the list of areas where fireworks may not be used.

Outside these public areas and the three incorporated cities, fireworks are legal in Flathead County.

Those found in violation of the county, Kalispell or Whitefish regulations can face up to six months in jail and fines of up to $500. Violators of the Columbia Falls regulations face up to 30 days in jail and fines of up to $100.

Although the Fourth of July is not until Thursday, fireworks complaints already have started coming in to local law enforcement.

Reporter Jesse Davis may be reached at 758-4441 or by email at [email protected].