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
Governor Braun announces $200 M investment to expand child care affordability, reduce waitlists
Education Union for ISTA staff files unfair labor charges
People urged to take precautions against tick-borne disease as risk increases with warmer weather
Hoosiers may qualify for free well water testing
FBI joins search for missing Owen County woman
Attorney General vows to protect Hoosiers from gas price gouging during temporary gas tax suspension
Rockville Town Board hikes sewer fee, talks irrigation program
Elevated fire weather risk in Central Indiana
All-way stop coming to U.S. 231 and State Road 234 in Montgomery County
Lane, shoulder closures to impact I-74 in Fountain County
Duke Energy reminds residents to call 811 before beginning spring digging projects
Parke County tornado confirmed
Parents offering new alternative for Montezuma Elementary families
Sherlock Holmes to the stage at Parke Heritage this weekend
