The July 4 weekend has traditionally been marked with family gatherings, cookouts and fireworks. A concern of fire, medical and law enforcement personnel is the safety of individuals setting off legal fireworks on their own property.
There are state laws in place to provide for the safety of everyone.
n Only individuals over the age of 18 can purchase fireworks.
n A person 18 years of age or older has to be present when anyone younger then 18 is using or possessing fireworks.
n Fireworks can only be used on the user’s property, the property of someone who granted permission for fireworks to be discharged, or a place designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal for the discharge of consumer fireworks.
n Light only one firework item at a time.
n Never attempt to re-light, alter or fix any "dud" firework item.
n Have a fire extinguisher, water supply, hose or a bucket of water nearby.
n Be cautious of lighting any fireworks during strong wind conditions and light fireworks with prevailing wind blowing away from the spectators.
n Never smoke when handling fireworks.
n Do not use alcohol with fireworks.
n Never aim, point or throw fireworks at another person.
n Use fireworks outdoors, never indoors.
Fireworks can be discharged between the hours of 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. any day except Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day and New Year’s Eve, when the times are 9 a.m. to midnight.
Violators of the aforementioned guidelines can be charged with a class C infraction.
Any person recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally using fireworks resulting in property damage can be charged with a class “A” misdemeanor. In the case of bodily injury sustained when recklessly, knowingly or intentionally setting off personal fireworks the charge is enhanced to a class “D” felony.
Adults are urged to act responsibly when setting off fireworks and to constantly monitor children who use fireworks. All fireworks can be dangerous if not used properly.
Frank Denzler can be contacted at (765) 932-2222 ext. 106 or via e-mail at frank.denzler@rushvillerepublican.com. To add a comment to this story visit our Web site at www.rushvillerepublican.com.
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