LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- With the Fourth of July days away, the Las Cruces Fire Department would like to remind residents how to safely – and legally – use fireworks during the season.

According to a 2006 city ordinance, the only fireworks allowed to be purchased, and discharged in the city of Las Cruces are ground or hand-held sparkling and smoke devices including:

- Cone fountains
- Crackling devices
- Cylindrical fountains
- Flitter sparklers
- Illuminating torches
- Toy smoke devices
- Wheels

Fireworks prohibited for possession, sale or use in Las Cruces are aerial and ground audible devices such as:

- Aerial spinners
- Helicopters
- Mines
- Missile-type rockets
- Roman candles
- Shells
- Stick-type rockets
- Chasers
- Firecrackers

Fireworks purchased outside of Las Cruces may be prohibited within the city, and may result in citations or fines if possessed or discharged within city limits. With different regulations applicable in the county, and in the Town of Mesilla, it is advised to possess and discharge fireworks in the locale where they were purchased. 

The Las Cruces Fire Department also has some rules and safety guidelines that all users of fireworks should follow. They include:

- Fireworks may not be sold to anyone under 16 years old.
- Fireworks may not be sold to anyone who is intoxicated.
- Keep in mind the hour of usage and be considerate of your neighbors.
- Be aware that dry weather conditions may leave grasses and weeds susceptible to fire.
- Keep a water supply – such as a garden hose and a bucket – handy in case of fire.
- Children should never use fireworks without adult supervision.
- Never let children light fireworks.
- Light only one item at a time and move away from it.
- Use fireworks outdoors only and keep them away from combustibles and busy areas.
- Purchase fireworks only from a licensed vendor.
- Follow all label directions carefully and use common sense.
- Clean up all fireworks debris and help keep Las Cruces beautiful.