STRAIGHT FROM THE SENATE

FIREWORKS: GOOD NEIGHBORS KNOW WHAT’S SAFE AND LEGAL

Here are some tips to help you have a happy holiday celebration

By State Sen. David Long (R-Fort Wayne)

STATEHOUSE – When members of the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, the world was forever changed. A new government based on freedom was born. Just a year later, Philadelphia residents celebrated by ringing bells, firing guns in the air and lighting firecrackers – even though the Revolutionary War wasn’t over yet.

July 4 is met with the same enthusiasm today – 214 years later – as communities across the state and nation will hold fireworks displays, conduct concerts and stage parades.

Thank you to our community news sponsors!

But while the nation’s birthday is a time to enjoy family, friends and fireworks, safety and responsibility shouldn’t be left out.
Fireworks can be captivating, but parents and children need to be knowledgeable of firework safety, what types of fireworks are legal and when it is appropriate to set them off. It’s also important to understand state laws and your community’s ordinances that regulate the use of fireworks.”
Last year, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) reported 116 firework-related injuries and more than half of those involved children and adolescents. Firecrackers, rockets and sparklers caused more than half of the injuries.
Officials from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security offer these answers to frequently asked questions in hopes of helping Hoosiers use fireworks safely and avoid injury:
How can I use fireworks more safely?
•Never let young children handle, play with or light any fireworks – use glow sticks as a safer alternative;
•Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children;
•Use a clear, open area and keep your audience a safe distance from the shooting site;
•Do not alter any fireworks device or attempt to make your own fireworks;
•Only light one firework item at a time and never attempt to re-light or fix a “dud” firework; and
•Have a fire extinguisher, water hose or bucket of water nearby.
What firework laws should I be aware of?
•During the five days before and five days after July 4, fireworks can be set off between 5 p.m. and two hours after sunset and between 10 a.m. and midnight on July 4;
•Check with local officials or monitor local media about when you can discharge fireworks, as local ordinances may further restrict usage;
•Only individuals 18 years of age or older may legally purchase fireworks;
•An adult must be present with those under 18 years of age who possess or use fireworks;
•Legal fireworks will be clearly marked with a 1.4G consumer firework label; and
•Fireworks may be discharged only on your property, the property of someone who has granted permission or at designated discharge locations.
More information on firework safety and regulations is available at www.in.gov/dhs/3375.htm
Please contact me at State Sen. David Long, Indiana Senate, 200 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or call 1-800-382-9467 or send e-mail to senator.long@iga.in.gov.