Fireworks safety reminders

With Independence Day around the corner, fireworks sales are skyrocketing.

While fireworks can brighten up any holiday celebration, they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. In 2017, more than 230 fireworks-related injuries were reported to the Indiana State Department of Health.

In order to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security and the State Fire Marshal are urging Hoosiers to review a variety of important reminders to before lighting any fuses. This includes:

• Never letting children handle, play with or light any fireworks without adult supervision;
• Storing fireworks in a cool, dry place;
• Using a clear, open area and keeping the audience a safe distance from the shooting site;
• Using extreme caution when lighting fireworks in the wind and keeping spectators in a place where the wind is blowing smoke and debris away from them;
• Never smoking or consuming alcohol when lighting fireworks;
• Never attempting to make or alter any fireworks; and
• Only lighting one firework at a time.

The National Safety Council (NSC) is also reminding Americans about the dangers of sparklers.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees and can quickly ignite clothing and cause severe burns.

Therefore, the NSC suggests considering safer alternatives, such as glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.

If you choose to set off your own fireworks, it is also important to review state fireworks laws.

Throughout the year, it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. in Indiana. However, on a state holiday, it is legal to set off fireworks from 9 a.m. to midnight. Hoosiers should always check with local officials, as this timeframe may be limited further by local ordinances.

Additionally, fireworks can only be purchased by someone 18 years of age or older and fireworks use is limited to personal property.

Click here for more fireworks safety reminders.