Fire officials warn about dangers of fireworks ahead of Fourth of July

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Community members may also be scoping out seating for the area firework display, taking place at 10:15 p.m. Tuesday at the Falls High School track field, sponsored by Falls Fire/Rescue/EMS. State law also makes it illegal to shoot off fireworks when intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. “You know most of the rules that we have boil down to using common sense”.

It is vital to note that legal fireworks can only be purchased from OR permitted fireworks retailers and stands.

Since Grayling’s fireworks display is set off at the Grayling Country Club, spectators gather in these areas to view the fireworks. He says both fireworks users and fireworks retailers selling to the public need to abide by the law.

The minimum age to buy or sell fireworks was recently changed from 12 to 16.

In 2016, the county fire department confiscated 215 pounds of illegal fireworks and issued seven citations.

Cal Fire says that most fires that are started over the Fourth of July are the result of illegal fireworks or legal fireworks that are used incorrectly.

The Michigan Fireworks Safety Act of 2011, which eased restrictions on the types of fireworks that consumers may detonate, took effect January 1, 2012. “But I think that’s pretty understood”. In either case, you may be held civilly liable for damages. It is legal to buy, possess and use fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Harris and other counties, but there are places you can not use fireworks, even in unincorporated areas of the county. Wait 20 minutes, and then soak it in a bucket of water.

Parents should not allow young children to handle fireworks.

Always remember exploding fireworks and loud noises can traumatize pets. Children are often burned on the hands and face, usually by playing with sparklers. They burn at a temperature of 1,200 degrees or more. When you’re done lighting it, immediately back away to a safe distance.

Never relight a “dud” firework.

“You want to use a ‘punk, ‘ because you don’t want to use one of these torch lighters”, says owner Ray LaMonica.