Commerce News Release
News Releases
Home

 

Ohio law regarding fireworks and related safety tips offered by statewide organizations

COLUMBUS--With the Fourth of July upon us, the Ohio Insurance Institute (OII) and the Ohio Department of Commerce's Division of State Fire Marshal share the following information regarding Ohio's law governing fireworks usage, general statistics and safety tips. Much of this information is available from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission website at www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/july4/4thjuly.html.

Ohio law
Ohio law specifically permits the use of sparklers, trick noise makers and other such novelties. It is one of five such states that permits the use of "novelty" fireworks. These fireworks can be sold and used anywhere in Ohio. Other "consumer fireworks" may only be sold by a licensed fireworks manufacturer or wholesaler. While they can be purchased by anyone over 18, they cannot be used in Ohio. Purchasers must sign a form agreeing to take the items out of the state within 48 hours if they are an Ohio resident, or 72 hours if they reside outside the state. "Consumer fireworks" include cone fountains, cylindrical fountains, roman candles, sky rockets, firecrackers, mines and shells, helicopter-type rockets, certain sparklers and revolving wheels. Penalties for discharging "consumer fireworks" include fines up to $1,000 and a maximum of six months in jail.

17 states essentially permit all consumer fireworks, 17 permit "safe and sane" fireworks, 5 permit "novelty" fireworks, and the remainder do not permit fireworks.

Display fireworks can only be sold by a licensed fireworks manufacturer or wholesaler and used by a licensed fireworks exhibitor. These also require permits and application to local authorities. A minimum of $1 million in insurance coverage is required, but some jurisdictions may require more. Also required is a state license, with the applicant being at least 21 years of age. An annual test and fee also apply.

Statistics
While fireworks injury rates are at an all-time low, they still remain prevalent. From 1994 to 1999, the injury rate dropped over 32%. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were an estimated 8,500 people treated for fireworks-related injuries in 1999 – the same number as in 1998. That's down from 10,900 in 1995. In 1994, the figure was 12,500.

Federal law prohibits explosive devices like M-80s and M-100s. Although banned, these still account for one-third of all Fourth of July injuries.

This Fourth of July, legal fireworks that meet the safety regulations of the CPSC will be on sale in 40 states and the District of Columbia.

General safety tips
To help you celebrate safely, follow these safety tips:
· Always read and follow label directions. Even legal fireworks might not be safe. For example, sparklers can reach temperatures above 1200 degrees Fahrenheit.
· Have an adult present.
· Buy from reliable sellers.
· Use outdoors only.
· Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).
· Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
· Light only one firework at a time.
· Never re-light a "dud" firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).
· Never give fireworks to small children.
· If necessary, store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
· Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can.
· Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
· Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
· Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
· Always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
· Stay away from "consumer fireworks" and illegal explosives.

Safety tips for public fireworks displays
The fire service is usually responsible for the public's safety when a large-scale fireworks display is presented. The actual firing of the display is conducted by a trained pyrotechnic operator and crew. These professionals are required to know and comply with all state and local regulations.

The following tips should help make the display more enjoyable to the public, as well as make the display as safe as possible:
· Spectators should obey all ushers or monitors and respect the safety barriers set up to allow the trained operator room to safely do his job. Resist any temptation to get close to the actual firing site. In fact, the best view of the fireworks is from a quarter of a mile or more away.
· Although it rarely happens, it is possible that a firework component might fall to the ground without exploding. Be cautioned not to touch these fireworks. If they happen to find any which have not exploded, they should immediately contact the local fire or police department.
· Leave pets at home if you are going to a fireworks show. Pets have very sensitive ears and the booms and bangs associated with a fireworks display can be quite uncomfortable -- particularly to dogs. In fact, the noises can actually hurt their ears.
· Leave the lighting of all fireworks to the trained operator when you attend a public display. Sparklers, fountains and other items that many states allow for use by private individuals are not appropriate to use when a large crowd is present.

Sources: US Consumer Product Safety Commission, National Council on Fireworks Safety

###

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Bill Teets, Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of State Fire Marshal, 614-644-7187 (office closed Tuesday, July 4)
Mary Bonelli/Mitch Wilson, Ohio Insurance Institute, 614-228-1593 (office closed Monday & Tuesday, July 3 & 4)

 

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

Send mail to webadmin@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.