HARRISBURG, Pa. — As Independence Day approaches, officials are reminding residents to celebrate safely and responsibly when using fireworks.
While many people opt to attend public fireworks displays, others choose to set off their own at home. Safety officials emphasize that improper use of fireworks can lead to serious injuries, fires and property damage.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission urges residents to take precautions when handling consumer fireworks. Among the most important safety measures are keeping a bucket of water or garden hose nearby, lighting fireworks one at a time and moving away quickly, and never attempting to relight malfunctioning fireworks.
Children should never handle or ignite fireworks, including sparklers, which burn at extremely high temperatures. Officials also stress that fireworks should never be pointed or thrown at another person and should not be used while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Under Pennsylvania law, residents age 18 and older may purchase and use “consumer-grade” or Class C fireworks. These include items such as firecrackers, Roman candles and bottle rockets containing no more than 50 milligrams of explosive material.
More powerful “display fireworks,” including large aerial shells and salutes with greater explosive content, are restricted to trained professionals who have obtained permits from the municipality where the display is held.
State law also outlines specific restrictions for consumer fireworks use. Fireworks may not be ignited on public or private property without permission from the property owner. They cannot be directed at people, buildings or vehicles and must not be discharged within 150 feet of any structure or vehicle.
Additionally, fireworks use is prohibited for individuals under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
Time restrictions may also apply. Municipalities can limit fireworks use between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m., although exceptions allow use until 1 a.m. on July 2, 3, 4 and Dec. 31. Additional late-night allowances may apply when July 4 falls midweek.
Authorities including Pennsylvania State Police, municipal officers, sheriffs and certified bomb squad members are authorized to confiscate fireworks used or possessed in violation of state law.
Consumer fireworks must be purchased from licensed, stand-alone retail facilities approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. While online and mail-order purchases are permitted, delivery must occur at a licensed location.
Officials encourage residents to check with their local municipality for any additional ordinances and to prioritize safety while celebrating the holiday.
