4th of July firework safety tips from the State Police Peru district

ISP Peru wants everyone to remain safe this July 4th, and safely handling fireworks is a priority.

Listed below are some safety tips that the Indiana State Police Peru District would like to provide when using fireworks to celebrate this July 4th:
 

• Never let children handle, play with, or light any fireworks.
• Never aim, point, or throw fireworks at another person.
• Use extreme caution when lighting fireworks in the wind. Keep spectators where the wind is blowing smoke and debris away from them.
• Never smoke or consume alcohol when lighting fireworks.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
• Steer clear of others setting off fireworks. They can backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction.
• Do not attempt to make or alter any fireworks or firework devices.
• Always have a fire extinguisher or water supply, such as a hose or bucket of water, nearby.
• Only light one firework at a time and never attempt to re-light or fix a "dud" firework.
• 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 PTSD and other types of medical conditions. The noise can cause severe stress and reaction in neighbors.
• Think about pets. Animals have sensitive ears and can be very frightened or stressed by fireworks sounds.
• Use fireworks outdoors, never indoors. 

Become more familiar with the state fireworks laws in Indiana. Throughout the year it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., but this may be limited further by local ordinances. 

• On state holidays it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to midnight, but this may be limited further by local ordinances.
• The times on the following dates are protected in Indiana for consumer use of fireworks and may not be prohibited by local ordinance:
  • June 29 to July 3: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset;
  • July 4: from 10 a.m. to midnight;
  • July 5 to July 9: from 5 p.m. until two hours after sunset; and
  • December 31: from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
• Fireworks can only be purchased by people 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. 

Please be sure to check local ordinances for any fireworks limitations that might exist in your area.