ISP share safety tips ahead of 4th of July holiday

Indiana State Police are reminding the public to keep safety in mind with the Fourth of July holiday coming up.

In 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported eight deaths and approximately 9,700 injuries related to fireworks use. Teens age 15-19 had the highest number of emergency room visits related to fireworks injury, and children age 5-9 had the second highest number admissions. Firecrackers (800 injuries) and sparklers (700 injuries) were statistically the largest contributor of injuries reported.
With that in mind, the Indiana State Police offer and encourage the following safety considerations when handling fireworks:

• Alcohol/drugs consumption leads to impaired judgement. Stay sober if you are going to be the one handling the fireworks.
• Fireworks should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from the reach of children.
• Never let children handle, play with, or light any fireworks.
• Never aim, point, or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never attempt to re-light or fix a "dud" firework.

Spectators should be upwind of the firework display area; wind direction is a priority.
• Always have a fire extinguisher or water supply, such as a hose or large bucket of water, nearby.

After a firework has finished burning, douse it with plenty of water before throwing it away to prevent starting a trash fire.
• Be considerate of individuals with medical conditions sensitive to loud noises.
• Public fireworks events with large crowds is not the best place to take your pets. Animals too may be very sensitive or stressed by fireworks explosions. Consider leaving them at home for their safety.
• And it should go without saying: Fireworks are for outdoor use only. 

In Rochester, fireworks can be set off from 5 p.m. to two hours after sunset June 29-July 3 and July 5-9. On July 4, they can be set off between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight. They're also permitted from 10 a.m. Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. Jan. 1.

Fireworks can only be purchased by persons 18 years of age or older.

Fireworks use is limited to personal property, the property of someone who has approved the use of fireworks or a location designated specifically for the use of consumer fireworks. 

More information regarding Indiana law as it relates to the regulation, sale, proper use and criminal penalties for improper/reckless use of fireworks can be found with a quick internet search under IC 22-11-14. 

Indiana State Police say to always check local ordinances for any fireworks limitations that might exist in a specific area.

–ISP report