MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - "In the best interest of preserving our parks, property and safety of our residents it is the responsible thing to do," said Fred Cowper, Meridian Township Fire Chief.

At a press conference held on Friday, July 1st local Fire Chief's announced that due to the dry conditions, a ban on consumer fireworks has been added to the current open burning ban that went into effect on June 27th.

Alaideon Township, Delhi Township, Delta Township, Grand Ledge and Meridian Township have all issued a ban on the use and discharge of consumer or low-impact fireworks until further notice. The open burning ban in those areas will also continue until it is determined the fire dangers have been eliminated.

This ban does not affect the sales of consumer fireworks.

"I have confidence our residents will act appropriately," said Cowper.

The Fire Chief's also announced they will bring in extra staff to help manage any incidents that occur. They emphasized that this was a public safety decision and they plan to focus on educating residents over issuing citations.

LuAnn Maisner, Director of Parks and Recreation in Meridian Township also announced that the Meridian Township 4th of July Fireworks Celebration will be postponed until the New Year's Eve holiday. Once the details have been decided, more information will be posted.

"For the last 40 years, we have held our fireworks celebration on the 4th of July. In 2012, our fireworks event was moved to New Year's Eve due to a burning ban," said Maisner. "It was very successful."

Fireworks displays by the City of Lansing, City of Mason and Delta Township will still take place as scheduled. Residents are urged to attend those public fireworks events instead of igniting their own.