As July 4th Nears, Officers Talk Fireworks Laws, Safety
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Amanda Bridgman-abridgman@timesuniononline.com
It’s time to let freedom ring with celebrations and fireworks as the Fourth of July nears, and local officials are reminding citizens of the laws when it comes to lighting off those bottle rockets.
Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Sgt. Chris Francis and Warsaw Police Department PIO Det. Brad Kellar say the county and city follow state law and there are no additional county or city ordinances when it comes to regulating firework displays.
So, here’s what’s allowed, and some safety tips.
The types of fireworks permitted are bottle rockets, roman candles, regular fire crackers and the like that include sparklers, ground spinners, cone fountains, wheels and cylindrical fountains. Special fireworks like 1.3G fireworks require a permit that is obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives prior to purchase, storage or use.
Fireworks can only be purchased by an adult, and children can only possess or use a firework of any kind while an adult is present.
Moreover, fireworks can only be used on the user’s private property. Permission is required if they are being set off on someone else’s property or a site where the state fire marshal has permitted for temporary discharge.
Like it or not, state law allows fireworks to be shot off any day of the year from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. and between 9 a.m. and midnight on the Fourth of July, so expect to hear some boomers and know that it is legally acceptable.
Kellar recognizes that might be frustrating to some people, including parents who have small children to put to bed, but the law is the law, he said.
Francis also said that the time when fireworks are set off is the complaint KCSO receives the most during the holiday.
Francis also reminds residents to be mindful of where fireworks are being launched and not to set them off in close proximity to structures or trees.
“We just urge everybody to abide by the law and be respectful of one another,” Francis said.
Some fireworks safety tips, which might seem like common sense, are important to remember. Last summer, a local teen blew off part of his hand while trying to throw a firework.
Never let children handle, play with or light any fireworks, Kellar said, and always store fireworks in a cool, dry place out of children’s reach.
Also, police recommend always purchasing fireworks from licensed fireworks dealers.
Use a clear, open area and keep the audience a safe distance away from the shooting site. Never attempt to re-light, alter or fix any firework item and have a fire extinguisher, water supply, hose or bucket of water nearby.
Be cautious lighting any fireworks during strong wind conditions, and light fireworks with wind blowing away from spectators. Never aim, point or throw fireworks at another person and always use fireworks outdoors.
Kellar said any person who violates any of the state laws, including the safety tips, like a person under 18 years old can’t handle a firework unless an adult is present, could face a Class A misdemeanor charge of violating Indiana Code 22-11-14-6. Felony charges can be filed against a person who recklessly uses fireworks and causes injury to another person.
“I would say be respectful of neighbors during the work week when firing off in the later hours,” Kellar said. “It’s very frustrating in neighborhoods for parents of young children or even those who must get up early for work the next day. Regardless, state law allows it until 11 p.m. or midnight on specified holidays.”
