The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Michigan State Police (MSP) are encouraging citizens to be safe with fireworks this Fourth of July.
Unlike the small, colorfully-packaged fireworks available for retail purchase, professional grade fireworks shells, which usually come wrapped in brown paper, contain larger amounts of sensitive explosive mixtures that can be very dangerous when used by untrained individuals. Additionally, the sale and purchase of these types of display fireworks by unlicensed persons is illegal.
"Illegal explosives devices meet neither safety nor quality standards of legally manufactured consumer fireworks," said ATF Special Agent in Charge Thomas Brandon. "Every year, countless injuries and needless deaths result from the improper use of fireworks or the handling of illegal explosives devices."
Citizens are reminded that Michigan law prohibits the sale, possession, transportation or use of Class B fireworks without a permit. Class B fireworks include firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles and any fireworks that leave the ground. Class C fireworks, which include flat paper caps, sparklers, fountains, toy snakes and smoke bombs, do not require a permit in Michigan.
Federally banned fireworks include M-80s, M-1,000s, silver salutes and cherry bombs. Mail order kits designed to build these fireworks also are banned. The manufacture, sale and receipt of these illegal explosives devices can result in federal felony and/or misdemeanor charges.
"The best option is to sit back, let the professionals do the work and enjoy the show," said Colonel Peter C. Munoz, director of the MSP. "If you do your own fireworks display, make sure to use items that are legal in Michigan and follow all safety precautions."
To increase safety during personal use of legal fireworks:
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
- Never allow children to play with fireworks of any kind.
- Only use fireworks outdoors.
- Wear protective clothing, including eyewear.
- Only light devices on smooth, flat surfaces away from residential areas, dry leaves and flammable materials.
- Always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction.
- Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
If you know of large, professional-grade fireworks or any explosive devices being sold illegally, please contact the ATF at 1-888 ATF-BOMB (1-888-283-2662).
CONTACTS: Senior Special Agent Donald Dawkins, ATF, (313) 202-3400
First Lieutenant Shawn Stallworth, MSP Bomb Squad, (517) 202-5465
Printer Friendly
Text Version
Twitter
Facebook
Yahoo
Google
Digg
Newsvine
StumbleUpon
Bookmark
Email Page
Stay Connected
Get Lottery Drawing Information!
Get the Latest News!