Have a Blast, but be Safe!

Independence Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with fireworks? While we all want to have a blast, no one wants to spend Independence Day in the emergency room, which is exactly where more than 15,600 people ended up in 2020. Accordingly, the State Fire Commissioner is urging caution, and recommends the following safety tips:

• Never allow children to play with fireworks, even sparklers, which can burn at temperatures of at least 1,200 degrees.
• Only allow adults to light fireworks one at a time, then quickly back away.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of a fire.
• Never pick up or try to relight fireworks that have not fully ignited.
• After the fireworks have burned, fully douse them with water before picking them up or disposing to prevent trash fires.
• Never use fireworks after consuming alcohol or other medications or substances that can impair judgment or the ability to react quickly to an emergency.
• Always remain at a safe distance from the ignition location.
• Be sensitive of neighbors and their pets, particularly if military veterans live nearby.

Pennsylvania state law requires the following for fireworks:

• Individuals who use Class C (consumer-grade) fireworks must be 18 years old.
• Fireworks cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without the express permission of the property owner.
• Fireworks cannot be discharged from within a motor vehicle or building.
• Fireworks cannot be discharged toward a motor vehicle or building.
• Fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure, whether or not a person is actually present.
• Fireworks cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug.