MOUNT VERNON – The Mount Vernon Fire Department would like to remind citizens that the discharging of fireworks is dangerous and can result in serious injury. Careful consideration should be taken to ensure that the fireworks that will be utilized are both legal and are properly discharged.
State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers gives this advice. “The best way for Ohioans to prevent fireworks injuries is to attend a licensed, professional fireworks exhibition. Also, keep in mind that even trick novelty fireworks, like sparklers, are inherently dangerous and can cause serious injury.”
The only type of fireworks that can be legally purchased and discharged in Ohio are trick novelty devices. These include items that smoke, sparkle, snap and snake. For those who choose to have their own display using these legal fireworks, Marshal Flowers encourages Ohioans to follow some important safety tips:
- Handle and discharge trick and novelty device only under adult supervision.
- Appoint one adult to be in charge. This person should know the hazards of each type of fireworks being used.
- Carefully read and follow the label directions on the trick and novelty device packaging.
- Light only one sparkler at a time and hold it away from your body and others.
- Sparkler wires, which can burn up to 1800 degrees, should immediately be placed in a bucket of water to avoid injury as they remain hot for a few minutes after burn out.
- If someone gets burned, run cool water over the wound for two or three minutes and seek medical attention when necessary.
Other fireworks, like those sold at fireworks stores around Ohio, can be legally purchased in the state, but you must agree to take them out of Ohio to discharge within 48 hours. You must be at least 18 years old to buy such items as firecrackers and bottle rockets at the stores you see along the roadways of Ohio. Firing them off within the state boundaries of Ohio is prohibited.
Flame lanterns, sky lanterns, or Chinese lanterns are considered to be a “flame effect” by the Ohio State Fire Marshal. Because of this classification, these devices are NOT LEGAL to discharge within the State of Ohio without proper licensing and permitting. Please make sure that the fireworks that you intend to use are legally permitted to be discharged in Ohio prior to your home exhibition. Failure to secure the proper permits or licensing could result in the fire department issuing a citation that will carry a fine.
A complete explanation of the exhibition standards, licensing procedure, and any other concerns relative to fireworks can be found at www.com.ohio.gov
Mount Vernon’s fireworks display is set for 10 p.m. Thursday, July 3rd at Memorial Park.
