With the weather heating up and things drying out, fireworks are a concern when it comes to both house fires and wildfires, West Pend Oreille Fire officials said.

While Idaho has laws in place to keep fireworks safe and sane, residents can still buy aerial fireworks even though they are illegal to light in the state, Rick O'Brien, WPOFD public information officer, said.

With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday — and no public fireworks show in Priest River — O'Brien urged residents to take a moment to learn about the state's fireworks laws and to exercise caution, thus helping prevent a possible tragedy.

In Idaho, "safe and sane fireworks" — those that stay near the ground and do not travel outside of a 20-foot diameter — are to be used in gravel or asphalt areas away from vegetation and buildings. These fireworks include cone fountains, sparklers, wheels and whistles, according to the Bureau of Land Management.

Aerial fireworks are illegal to shoot off in Idaho, although you can purchase them legally in the state. Firework vendors must have people sign an affidavit saying they won’t set off aerial fireworks in Idaho.

"Aerial fireworks have a risk of starting wildfires and causing injuries to people," O'Brien said, citing information shared in a Boise State public radio announcement. "In 2016, the Table Rock Fire was started by illegal fireworks and burned over 2,500 acres. Two structures, including a home, were destroyed in the fire."

Illegal fireworks in Idaho include bottle rockets, skyrockets, Roman candles, firecrackers, missiles, parachutes, sky flyers, display shells, and other aerial items.

O'Brien said fireworks can be sold from midnight June 23 until midnight July 5, and starting at midnight Dec. 26 until midnight Jan. 1. Fireworks also have authorized use times during specific times of the year, and people should check local ordinances for dates when fireworks can be used, he said.

WPOFD officials said residents should be aware that having fireworks or using them on federal public lands is prohibited, as also noted by the Bureau of Land Management. 

"Anyone who is misusing fireworks can also be held liable for damages, which often include the costs of putting out the fire," O'Brien said.

Before lighting off fireworks, West Pend Oreille Fire District Chief Jamie Painton outlined several tips to help residents prepare for, and have, a safer celebration:

Among his recommendations: use legal fireworks purchased at licensed outlets, store fireworks out of reach of children, always read and follow label directions, keep pets indoors as they may be easily frightened by fireworks, and always have water handy, such as a garden hose or a bucket of water.

Painton also recommended that only adults light any fireworks, with matches and lighters kept away from children. 

"Fireworks should be used outdoors only and only one lit at a time," he said. "Children and pets should be kept away from the fireworks, which should be placed on the ground and not thrown or held in your hand."