Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC) continues its annual summer fireworks safety campaign to promote responsible celebrations and prevent injuries and property damage. With an uptick in celebrations this Fourth of July weekend, State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook is reminding people to celebrate smartly and safely.
Careless use of fireworks can lead to serious injury or death, so please be responsible to keep yourself and fellow Pennsylvanians safe. I encourage everyone to understand and follow all laws and local ordinances and to read and follow all manufacturer safety guidelines when using fireworks.
— State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook
The OSFC emphasizes fireworks injuries are largely preventable and urges Pennsylvanians to follow these safety guidelines:
- Avoid alcohol and drugs: Never use fireworks after consuming alcohol, illegal drugs, or medications that can impair judgment.
- Supervise children: Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Sparklers, which burn at 2,000°F, are the second leading cause of fireworks-related ER visits.
- Prepare for emergencies: Keep a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher nearby when setting off fireworks.
- Use protective gear: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
- Handle fireworks properly: Never hold fireworks in your hand or place any part of your body over them when lighting them or when they are lit.
- Maintain a safe distance: Never light fireworks inside, near people, or near buildings.
- Dispose of fireworks safely: Soak spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding them.
- Keep pets safe: Keep pets indoors, close curtains or blinds, and provide background noise to reduce stress.
Stay legal, as illegal fireworks should never be used. Pennsylvania’s fireworks law allows anyone who is at least 18 years old to purchase, possess and use consumer-grade fireworks such as bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, and similar fireworks containing up to 50 milligrams of explosive material. The law sets penalties, including a fine of up to $500 for a first offense, for intentionally using consumer fireworks:
- On private property or on public property without the express permission of the owner.
- Within, directed at, or directed from, a vehicle or building.
- Directed at another person.
- While under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Within 150 feet of a building or vehicle, whether or not the building or vehicle is owned by the user of the consumer fireworks.
The law does not include ground and handheld sparkling devices, novelties, or toy caps, which are permitted at all times.
More information on fireworks safety.
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