Fires spark renewed discussion about Idaho fireworks laws

NAMPA, Idaho – After fireworks sparked a wildfire in central Idaho that burned about 4 square miles as well as a separate house fire in Nampa public officials are pushing to reevaluate Idaho’s fireworks regulations.

The Idaho Press-Tribune reports that Boise Fire Chief Dennis Doan and Nampa Fire Marshal Phil Roberts are calling for the Idaho Legislature to ban the sale of aerial fireworks, with are illegal to use in state but legal to sell.

Others, such as John Palomarez of Meridian, who owns John’s Discount Fireworks in Caldwell, say it’s not the loophole that causes problems, but rather the usage ban. He said if people are allowed to use aerial fireworks and educated about how to do so safely there would be fewer fires.