By SCOTT CARLSON
North Platte Post
OGALLALA, Neb.-Loud bangs and bright flashes are the highlights of the Independence Day celebration in America. But, the skies in Keith County will be dark and quiet this year.
The Keith County Board of Commissioners announced that fireworks will be prohibited in the entire county this year.
The commissioners said under the advice of area fire departments and the National Weather Service, the decision was made to immediately ban the sale and use of all fireworks.
Commissioners cited drought conditions that would create an "unmanageable atmosphere for fires."
The resolution did not describe penalties for those who violate the fireworks ban.
A couple of weeks ago, the city of Ogallala announced that fireworks would not be allowed in the city limits, causing many to express concerns that residents would discharge fireworks in the country where there is more open land and a greater risk for fires.