COEUR d'ALENE — Fireworks stands have begun to pop up in anticipation of Independence Day, and local public safety officials are urging residents to responsibly celebrate their freedom.

"Safe and Sane," which means only purchasing fireworks from authorized stands and then lighting the fireworks in a responsible manner, is the golden rule for fireworks enthusiasts throughout Kootenai County. Coeur d'Alene Fire Department Chief Kenny Gabriel reminded residents in an interview with The Press that common sense is key.

"Be courteous to your neighbors and enjoy it," Gabriel said. "But remember that this is one of the most dangerous days of the year for us — we just ask you to use extreme caution."

Although, by all indications, the fire danger will not be as high this year as last, Gabriel said foliage, particularly undergrowth, is drying out quickly. There have already been several controlled burns that have spread quickly, he said, and a fire could easily grow on Tubbs Hill.

"We are very concerned about it," Gabriel said, adding the department will be monitoring the neighborhoods in the hills of Coeur d'Alene, as well as have extra crews on hand, during the Fourth of July.

Gabriel added no fireworks of any kind are allowed on city property, or in city parks. Fireworks can only be purchased and used the week prior to the Fourth of July, up until July 5.

Post Falls Police Department Captain Greg McLean told The Press the rules for the city are identical to Coeur d'Alene, including only allowing fireworks from authorized vendors.

"Any of the illegal stuff that people are in possession of could potentially result in them being charged," McLean said. "We will confiscate them if we find them. And when you start mixing alcohol with explosives, that can always be a danger — we just want to make sure people are safe and abide by the rules."

Safety Tips

• Kids should never play with fireworks.

• If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from their faces, clothing, and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (982 Celsius) — hot enough to melt gold.

• Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place. Never try to make your own fireworks.

• Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents. Steer clear of others — fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.

• Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting.

• Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket — the friction could ignite them.

• Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.

• Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.

• Don't allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.

• Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.