LANSING, MI - As America’s 250th Independence Day approaches, the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) and State Fire Marshal Tom Hughes are reminding Michiganders to put safety first when using fireworks.
“Gathering with friends and family on Independence Day is a time-honored tradition,” said Marlon I. Brown, Director of LARA. “Celebrating responsibly starts with important safety precautions like purchasing fireworks only from licensed retailers and ensuring that adults actively supervise fireworks activities. We want everyone to enjoy a safe and memorable holiday.”
“When it comes to fireworks, the safest choice is to attend a professional fireworks show,” said State Fire Marshal Tom Hughes. “However, many Michiganders choose to use consumer fireworks at home with friends and family. To prevent serious injuries during these displays, we’re asking everyone to follow these fireworks safety tips.”
Fireworks Safety Tips
DO:
- Purchase fireworks only from licensed retailers.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on all fireworks.
- Ensure an adult is always present and supervising fireworks displays.
- After lighting the fireworks fuse, immediately step away to a safe distance according to package instructions.
- Only use fireworks outdoors on a driveway or other hard surface.
- Light fireworks one at a time.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of emergency.
- Douse all spent fireworks in a bucket of water before discarding them in a trash can.
DON’T:
- Experiment with or make your own fireworks.
- Allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Place any part of your body over or near a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.
- Try to re-light “duds” or fireworks that have not fully ignited. (Rather, wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak them in a bucket of water.)
- Point or throw fireworks at people.
- Carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
LARA and State Fire Marshal Hughes also encourage Michiganders to be aware of fireworks laws, noting the following:
- Consumer-grade fireworks may only be ignited on personal property.
- It is illegal to use fireworks on public property, including streets, sidewalks, schools, churches, or on someone else’s property without permission.
- It is illegal to use fireworks while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
- You must be 18 or older to purchase consumer fireworks in Michigan.
Local communities may have their own restrictions. Residents should check local ordinances before using fireworks.
Additional resources for fireworks safety include:
From all of us at LARA, we wish you a safe and happy Independence Day.
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