Fire marshal highlights dangers of fireworks

As Independence Day approaches and Ohioans make plans to celebrate America's 250th birthday, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal urges people to stay safe and legal if they plan to make fireworks part of their plans. As you purchase fireworks, it's important that you only: • Visit licensed retailers • Purchase fireworks you're comfortable and knowledgeable in handling • Understand and follow state and local laws governing their sale and use What's legal? What isn't? Consumer fireworks undergo strict regulations and testing to ensure they meet federal safety and classification standards prior to being sold. Fireworks may only be sold to the public by licensed Ohio wholesalers and manufacturers whose licenses must be clearly posted inside their showrooms. Ohioans can find a state-licensed fireworks retailer by accessing its online database: elicense7.com.ohio.gov/Lookup/LicenseLookup.aspx. In Ohio, it is illegal for anyone to manufacture, possess, use or store 1.3G fireworks without a specific license. This includes homemade fireworks. If you suspect someone is selling homemade fireworks either in person or online or does not have a license to sell fireworks, you should never purchase those items and instead report them to local law enforcement. Many have been harmed Aside from the personal danger to individuals, fireworks in general cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage each year in Ohio. From Dec. 31, 2024, to Jan. 3, 2026, there were about 110 fireworks-related incidents in Ohio with more than $400,000 in property loss. The consequences of illegal fireworks can be deadly. For example, last year, one person was killed, and two individuals were injured following a home explosion in Liberty Township, which was found to have involved the manufacturing of homemade fireworks. "Fireworks can be an exciting way to celebrate the holiday, but safety is just as important as the celebration itself," Ohio state fire marshal Kevin Reardon said. "We want Ohioans to enjoy the Fourth of July, but we also want them to follow the law, stay aware of their surroundings, and make responsible choices that keep themselves and their communities safe." When can they be lit? Aside from making sure your plans only involve legally purchased fireworks, it's also important to make sure the dates of your celebrations align with Ohio law. If local ordinances permit the discharge of consumer fireworks, Ohio law only allows their use on specific dates and times. During the Independence Day holiday period, consumer fireworks may be discharged from July 3-5 as well as on the first Friday, Saturday, and Sunday immediately before and after July 4. In addition, fireworks may only be set off from 4-11 p.m. unless additional restrictions are imposed locally. Improperly using or discharging fireworks outside these designated dates constitutes a first‑degree misdemeanor. Ohioans should check with their local jurisdiction to confirm whether additional restrictions or bans are in place. Staying safe For those planning to use fireworks, the National Safety Council recommends the following safety tips: • Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. • Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear. • Never hold lit fireworks in your hand. • Never light fireworks indoors. • Only use fireworks away from people, homes, and flammable materials. • Never point or throw fireworks at another person. • Light only one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting. • Never ignite fireworks inside a container. • Do not attempt to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that fail to go off or in case of fire. Even trick or novelty fireworks — such as items that smoke, sparkle, snap or snake — pose risks when not handled properly. The division encourages the following safety guidelines: • Use trick and novelty devices only under close adult supervision • Understand the hazards associated with each type of device • Carefully read and follow all package instructions in a careful manner • Light only one sparkler at a time and hold it away from yourself and others • Limit sparkler use to individuals 12 and older • Place used sparkler wires in a bucket of water immediately after being used, as they can remain hot for several minutes If fireworks are being used improperly or outside permitted times, residents should contact their local law enforcement agency. Visit com.ohio.gov/fireworks for additional information on fireworks laws and safety.