By Shelby Stewart

Staff Writer

With the 4th of July approaching, fireworks are popping up at parties and gatherings within the area.

“Everyone should be respectful of  their neighbors,” said Brandon Township Supervisor Kathy Thurman. “For this year’s holiday consumer fireworks are allowed on June 29 and 30 and July 6 and 7 between the hours of 8 p.m.and midnight and July 3-5 between the hours of 8 a.m.and midnight.”

In addition to being respectful, those wishing to light fireworks should keep safety in mind.

“It has been a bit dry lately, so don’t light them off in a tall grass or dry grass area, away from barns, pastures, residents and vehicles,” said Brandon Fire Chief David Kwapis. “Don’t drink and light fireworks, that’s

“It has been a bit dry lately, so don’t light them off in a tall grass or dry grass area, away from barns, pastures, residents and vehicles,” said Brandon Fire Chief David Kwapis. “Don’t drink and light fireworks, that’s usually where the injuries come from. Have a hose nearby and make sure that if you’re shooting projectiles, that it is in a fixed device or located on level ground so it doesn’t tip.”

Kwapis also stresses that the lumineres, commonly called Chinese Lanterns, are illegal in Michigan since they are not considered consumer fireworks.

“The reason is that you never know where they’re going to come down, they have caught buildings and fields on fire before, not in our area but through our state and other states as well,” he said.

Anyone who would like to read the exact ordinance can do so on the Brandon Township website, under Sec. 28-230.

The Ortonville fireworks are on July 7 for anyone wishing to attend.