Celebrate Independence Day Responsibly

As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and family gatherings, please remember to celebrate responsibly and put safety first. The People’s Park and Recreation Foundation has entered into a partnership with Town Pump to collect donations for the annual 4th of July fireworks show scheduled for 2025 in downtown Great Falls. Throughout the month of June, Town Pump has matched each dollar donated, thereby enhancing the funding required for the event. The fireworks display is entirely supported by donations, and each contribution brings the foundation closer to delivering an exceptional show. Montana law enforcement will increase patrols during this holiday. With the state having some of the highest traffic fatality rates linked to impaired drivers, it’s vital for everyone to recognize the risks not only to themselves but also to others on the road. “Anytime someone chooses to drive while impaired, they not only take their own life in their hands, but also the lives of others,” said Lewis and Clark County Sheriff Leo Dutton. “Be responsible by planning ahead for a sober ride this Fourth of July.” While the potential of causing serious harm or death should be enough for everyone to drivesober, there are also serious consequences that come with being arrested for driving under theinfluence. A revoked driver’s license, mandatory classes, jail time, $10,000 in fines and legal fees, andconsequences with employers or future employment are all possible results of a DUI. “The Fourth of July is one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. A few minutes of planning for a sober ride can be the difference between a joyful or tragic holiday,” said Tammy Ross, Transit, Safety and Planning Bureau Chief, MDT. “We urge everyone to make smart choices: designate a sober driver, arrange a rideshare, use public transportation, or call a cab. If you see friends or family who have had too much to drink, arrange a sober ride for them as well. Together, we can prevent deaths and serious injuries on our roadways.” Montana leads the nation in fatalities caused by impaired driving, with 34% of traffic deaths attributed to alcohol impairment from 2012 to 2023. The Fourth of July is a particularly busy day for Great Falls Fire Rescue, primarily due to incidents related to fireworks. In Great Falls, fireworks can only be sold and discharged from July 2nd through 4th, between 8 AM and midnight, and only on private property. Both the use and discharge of fireworks are prohibited on publicly owned land, which includes parks, streets, sidewalks, and parking areas. “Great Falls Fire Rescue wants to ensure that all are able to enjoy the 4th of July holiday," stated Mike McIntosh, Assistant Chief of Prevention for Great Falls Fire Rescue. "Please make sure that fireworks are used safely and responsibly. Have a bucket of water handy so that you can soak your fireworks before throwing them in the trash to prevent a trash fire, and make sure kids have adult supervision when lighting fireworks. Lastly, we have seen numerous fireworks-related injuries the past couple of years. Remember not to hold fireworks/firecrackers in your hands, and do not shoot bottle rockets or roman candles at other people or animals!” According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of people are injured each year by consumer fireworks, often leading to burns, hand and eye injuries, or worse. Everyone is urged to celebrate responsibly. It's also essential to be considerate of neighbors who may be disturbed by fireworks and to keep pets indoors to minimize their stress.