Fireworks Laws, Safety Tips to Know for Fourth of July Weekend

Stay safe this holiday weekend.

Shutterstock photo.

INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones reminds Hoosiers about important fireworks safety tips and when and where fireworks can be set off legally.

Did you know there are primarily two types of fireworks?

The most common are consumer fireworks, which are small devices that are frequently sold at retail stores statewide. The other kind of fireworks, called display fireworks, are not legal without state and federal permits.

Those types of fireworks are more powerful and are meant for large displays or shows and are banned in many states.

Indicators that a firework may be illegal:

• Fireworks in brown paper wrapping instead of cellophane
• Items in boxes that have no graphics or markings
• A firework that is being sold in a non-commercial location, such as a vehicle or residence
• Seller has no evidence of a receipt or commercial packaging
• Seller cannot say where the firework was originally purchased

If you recognize any of these signs, do not purchase them. Report the seller to the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) at 1-888-283-2662.
Note: Cherry bombs, M-80s, M-100s or silver salutes, M-250s, M-1000s or quarter sticks are illegal and should also be reported to law enforcement.

It is also important to check local ordinances for any fireworks limitations that might exist in the area:

• Fireworks can only be purchased by persons 18 years of age or older.
• Fireworks use is limited to personal property, the property of someone who has approved the use of fireworks or a location designated specifically for the use of consumer fireworks.
• Throughout the year it is legal in Indiana to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., but this may be limited further by local ordinances. Citizens should check with local officials.
• On state holidays it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to midnight, but this may be limited further by local ordinances.
• The times on the following dates are protected in Indiana for consumer use of fireworks and may not be prohibited by local ordinance:
  • June 29 to July 3: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset;
  • July 4: from 10 a.m. to midnight;
  • July 5 to July 9: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset; and
  • December 31: from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
• All public fireworks displays must receive a state permit, which includes approval by the chief of the local fire department. A permit is needed not only to conduct the display, but also to possess and transport the fireworks used in these shows.
• All fireworks manufacturers, distributors and sellers in Indiana are required to receive state permits. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) inspects these locations as part of the permitting process.

Fireworks are combustible or explosive devices, and they should be handled cautiously. Sparklers, for example, burn at about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which can melt some metals, not to mention burn skin.

Always remember the following safety tips when interacting with fireworks:

• Only light one firework at a time and never attempt to re-light or fix a "dud" firework.
• Always have a fire extinguisher or water supply, such as a hose or bucket of water, nearby.
• Do not allow young children to use fireworks, and only let older children handle them under close adult supervision.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
• Never smoke or consume alcohol when lighting fireworks.
• Do not hold lit fireworks in your hands, and do not point or throw fireworks at others.
• Use extreme caution when lighting fireworks in the wind. Keep spectators where the wind is blowing smoke and debris away from them.
• Steer clear of others setting off fireworks. They can backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction.
• After a firework has finished burning, douse it with plenty of water before throwing it away to prevent starting a trash fire.
• Do not attempt to make or alter any fireworks or firework devices.
• Keep pets indoors, away from fireworks. Set up an area away from windows where they cannot see or hear fireworks, as many pets are terrified of them. Consider buying medication from a veterinarian ahead of time to calm pets.

For more information, visit https://www.in.gov/dhs/get-prepared/fire-safety/fireworks-safety/.