Celebrating Independence Day with Red, White and Boom

SOUTH RANGE, WI. — With the Fourth of July near fireworks will soon be, if not already, in the air. It’s an American tradition symbolizing pride and patriotism.

Independence Day is a time for celebration; sparking joy for friends, family and communities across the nation.

“We’re celebrating our independence, we’re celebrating our freedoms and we’re celebrating with a bang and with color.” Owner of KG Fireworks Warehouse in South Range Jason Deatherage went on to say, “I think there is such a diverse amount of fireworks with different effects and it kind of represents the diversity of all the people who live here.”

The start of Jason’s story might sound familiar. “I got into it (fireworks sales) because I loved fireworks and my wife didn’t want me to spend too much money on fireworks so I was like, “I’m going to start selling some to make money,” he stated.

Fast forward to present day, “10 years later we supply a lot to the whole area; Minnesota, Wisconsin and people travelling through to other states,” said Jason.

From fountains to sky-high mortars, KG Fireworks helps to brighten the northland.

“When you light that fuse you don’t really know what you’re going to experience until it’s up in the air and that instant excitement of, “ooo that was really cool!” I think that appeals to everyone of all ages,” Jason exclaimed.

Watching the light show might make you feel a sense of nostalgia, Jason explained, “so kids really like that stuff, and even as adults the memories of when you were a kid lighting those things brings it all back and makes it fun.

However, with all the fun comes rules, restrictions and state laws.

In Minnesota, anything that explodes, leaves the ground or sends sparks flying more than four-feet requires a state permit.

Possession or use of illegal fireworks is punishable by law. You could be looking at a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor violation.

Meanwhile, in the badger state, “In Wisconsin the process is quite simple; you have to talk to your town clerk and sign a paper, but there is so many things here (KG Fireworks) that you can buy that are not considered fireworks.”

Jason went on to say, “but every firework we explain what they do, we have videos showing what everything does.”

Along with education, Jason notes the dangers of fireworks and has some tips for safe usage.

“Make sure things are not tipping over, making sure that your area is secured so that your not lighting any fires, making sure your aware of the distance that things need to be from the audience from houses, vehicles, and trees hanging over.”

Continuing on, Jason said, “of your a first time user of fireworks definitely ask us questions we’ll make recommendations.”

With the laws laid out and safety in place, we asked Jason what his favorite firework is to display.

“Turn it loose. It’s a 200 g cake that shoots up and it’s pretty big and pretty loud and it has a six shot finale so that’s always an impressive one.”

Everybody likes a good finale.