By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Fireworks go on sale in Hays Saturday, July 2, and will continue to be sold through Monday, July 4, for the Independence Day holiday. Discharge of fireworks in the city limits is allowed the same three days from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m.

At last week’s city commission meeting–as the area wheat harvest got underway–Hays Vice-Mayor Shaun Musil urged residents to be cautious when using their fireworks.

“I just hope people are smart.  Since I’ve been on the commission it’s a no-win situation whether we have them or not,” Musil said.

He supported the decision of Ellis County Commissioners–at the recommendation of Fire Director Darin Myers–not to allow fireworks to be discharged in the county’s rural, unincorporated areas.

“I think the county had a smart idea not allowing fireworks out in the county…for safety, it’s  the best thing to do.

“I just hope people are actually able to go out and enjoy July 4th but also realize it’s dry out there and harvest is going on, and that’s very important to our economy. I hope the farmers are successful.

“No matter what, some people aren’t going to be happy that other people are shooting fireworks. I really hope they take their neighbors into consideration.

“If you are shooting them off, obey the law. This is probably not a fun time for our police officers or our firefighters,” Musil added.

According to the Hays Municipal Code “persons using fireworks are responsible for cleaning up all debris.  Those found in violation of the Hays City Code may be fined up to $500 and 30 days in jail.”