According to a report from the Devils Lake Police Department, on Sunday, July 12 at approximately 2:47 p.m., an adult female in her late 20s or early 30s sustained severe injuries in a fireworks accident that occurred downtown near Bert’s Deep Rock Service on 5th St. NE. The woman reportedly discovered an undetonated firework and decided to set it off. The firework unexpectedly went off in her hand, causing severe damage that severed some fingers. The woman received medical attention and was transported to the hospital. Her current condition is not known at this time.
City ordinance only allow for the use of fireworks within city limits from July 1 – 5. However, considering the woman’s current circumstances, no citations have thus far been issued.
This incident underscores that the use of fireworks, even in public celebrations, can cause life-altering or fatal injuries if mishandled. The DLPD has previously informed the public to follow municipal fireworks ordinances listed below:
- 8.20.010 – Sale dates: No person shall sell or offer for sale at retail within the city any fireworks on or before June 27 or after July 5 of the governing year, both dates inclusive, except as provided in this chapter. $200 violation.
- 8.20.020 – Use dates: No person shall within the city set off, explode, or detonate any fireworks before July 1 or after July 5 in any year, except as provided in this chapter. $100 violation.
- 8.20.030 – Hours of use: No person shall set off, explode, or detonate any fireworks other than during the hours of 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. during the dates listed in this chapter. $100 violation.
Discovery of any undetonated fireworks should be reported to the proper authorities so they can be disposed of safely.