OTISFIELD — Two residents appeared at Otisfield’s Select Board meeting in July to request the board take steps to limit the use of fireworks in town.

Doris Curtis presented a proposal for an ordinance that would allow fireworks on specific holidays: New Year’s Eve/Day; Memorial Day; Independence Day; and Labor Day. She said the ordinance will enable horse owners to take precautions ahead of time to keep their animals calm and safe.

A horse spooked by sudden loud crashes may injure themselves, other animals or their handlers. A panicked horse can break free from its shelter, causing damage and injury to other people and property.

Four years ago in Yarmouth, a horse terrified by fireworks broke out, got lost and became trapped in mud for 14 hours before it was found and had to be euthanized.

Another resident, Elise McAllister, told of a situation where it happened to her: when she tended to her horse who was terrified during a fireworks display she was injured and required hospitalization and follow-up care.

Curtis and McAllister added that the noise brought by fireworks also affects smaller livestock and pets in similar ways.

When Curtis stated that according to Maine statute the use of fireworks within a one-mile radius of livestock is prohibited, Selectman Rick Micklon advised that Otisfield lacks the authority to enforce the law without a local ordinance. Even with an enacted ordinance, without local law enforcement it would be difficult to compel compliance.

According to the Oxford County Sheriff’s Office, law enforcement will exclusively intervene in situations involving imminent threats or danger to injury, but not in response to complaints related to noise or timing of fireworks. Incidents of that nature fall under the jurisdiction of the Maine Fire Marshall’s office.

Micklon explained to Curtis and McAllister the board has the option to incorporate an ordinance as a selectman’s warrant, although the board adheres to specific precedents in determining which matters are presented to the voters.

Another option for residents seeking ordinances is to gather signatures through a petition from at least 10% of the town’s residents. Once a petition is presented the board include the matter with its annual town meeting warrant.

Curtis was provided with the applicable petition form.