IDHS Reminding Hoosiers To Take Proper Safety Precautions While Dealing With Fireworks

Have a fun and safe 4th of July.

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(Indianapolis, Ind.) – With Independence Day being right around the corner, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security is reminding Hoosiers to stay safe when handling fireworks.

According to a report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, for the year of 2018, there were an estimated 9,100 firework-related injuries treated in hospitals emergency rooms nationwide. 62 percent of all reported injuries occurred between June 22 and July 22.

About half of the firework injured happened to people younger than 20 years old, and 39 percent were children under the age of 15 years old.  

When it comes to fireworks, it is always important to follow these safety tips:

• Use extreme caution when lighting fireworks in the wind. Keep spectators where the wind is blowing smoke and debris away from them.
• Never smoke or consume alcohol when lighting fireworks.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
• Steer clear of others setting off fireworks. They can backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction.
• Do not attempt to make or alter any fireworks or firework devices.
• Always have a fire extinguisher or water supply, such as a hose or bucket of water, nearby.
• Only light one firework at a time and never attempt to re-light or fix a "dud" firework.
• Be considerate of individuals with PTSD and other types of medical conditions. The noise can cause severe stress and reaction in neighbors.
• Think about pets. Animals have sensitive ears and can be very frightened or stressed by fireworks sounds.

It is also important to become familiar with the state fireworks laws in Indiana, and even more important to check your local ordinances for any fireworks limitations that may exist in the area:

• Throughout the year it is legal 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.
• 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.