Every year around the Fourth of July, people buy fireworks and then look for a place to shoot them off.

Shooting fireworks except in professional displays is illegal in the Billings city limits.

But the local fishing access site or state park presents an inviting spot.

Don't do it.

The discharge of fireworks is prohibited on all federal and state lands. Anyone caught using fireworks on state or federal lands may be charged with a misdemeanor that can result in a fine as much as $500.

For regulations on county lands, contact your local fire department, county fire warden or sheriff's office.

The danger of wildland fire will increase as the summer heats up and the lush growth of this spring dries out.

Campers should make sure that their fire is out before leaving; smoke only in an enclosed vehicle or building and crush it out completely; and drive and park only in areas clear of vegetation. Always stay on roads and trails; cross-country driving is generally not allowed on state and federal lands.