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
Vincennes man arrested in connection with fatal fire
Red Hill Unit #10 adopts fiscal year budget;sets high school graduation
Lawrenceville to seek state sidewalk improvement grant
Early voting for November election underway in Illinois
Postal Service recommends 2026 holiday mailing and shipping dates
Lawrence County high schools recognized for student financial aid services
Mock emergency drill planned in Lawrence County
Unit #20 fiscally sound after passage of 2026-27 budget
Illinois to close eight state visitor information centers
Niemerg issues statement on no cash bail anniversary
Lawrence County drivers reminded of Child Passenger Safety Week
Fire injures one person in Vincennes
Farm harvest safety reminders for drivers
Southwestern Indiana fugitive arrested in Illinois after multi-county chase
Governor Braun proclaims Indiana Rail Safety Week September 21-27
Lawrence County (ILL.) man charged with child sex crime
