Dear Editor,

The Fourth of July is coming upon us quickly, and for most Americans that means fireworks.

Every year, the state fire marshal is asked are about what is legal and safe. In Ohio, there are three categories of fireworks: trick and novelty, 1.3G (display fireworks) and 1.4G (consumer fireworks). Trick and novelty fireworks include items such as sparklers, snaps, glow snakes and smoke bombs. These can be sold anywhere in Ohio and can be used anywhere in Ohio. Display fireworks include items such as aerial shells that are fired from mortars. They can only be sold by a licensed manufacturer or wholesaler to a licensed manufacturer, wholesaler or exhibitor. They can only be discharged by a licensed exhibitor. Consumer fireworks include items such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles and fountains. These can only be sold by a licensed manufacturer or wholesaler. Anyone over the age of 18 may purchase these items, but must sign a form stating that they will transport the fireworks outside the state of Ohio within 48 hours (or 72 hours for non-residents of Ohio). These fireworks cannot legally be discharged in the state of Ohio.

First time violators of Ohio’s fireworks laws are subject up to a $1000 fine and up to six months in jail. Violations include falsifying a purchaser’s form, possessing fireworks outside the allotted 48 or 72-hour period, or discharging illegal fireworks.

I am also asked what role the State Fire Marshal’s Office plays in making sure the fireworks season is a safe one. We are working to educate local fire department inspectors and fireworks exhibitors on the latest safety techniques for public fireworks displays. Additionally, while Ohio law requires one annual inspection prior to the December licensing of fireworks facilities, we have established a goal to inspect each facility three times in June and early July.

As we all know, fireworks are inherently dangerous and their use can result in serious injury. The U.S. Consumer Product and Safety Commission estimates that 8,500 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associate with fireworks in 1998. Approximately 55 percent of fireworks related injuries are burns, most to the hand, eyes, and head. Nearly 40 percent of the victims were under the age of 15.

I would like to encourage all Ohioans to have a safe Fourth of July and to enjoy fireworks at your local professional exhibition.

[Commerce Home Page] [Commerce News Releases] [State of Ohio Front Page]

Send mail to Postmaster@com.state.oh.us with questions or comments about this web site.
Information believed accurate but not guaranteed.  The State of Ohio disclaims liability for any errors or omissions.
Copyright © 1998 The Ohio Department of Commerce