June 29th, 2010

The Kentucky state fire marshal encourages Kentuckians to attend community fireworks displays instead of celebrating with fireworks at home.

“Kentuckians who put on their own fireworks show not only run the risk of injury, but also may be violating state law,” said William Swope Jr., Kentucky’s state fire marshal.

        “Kentucky law doesn’t allow consumers to use the kind of fireworks that can be viewed at professional shows,” Swope said. “For home use, the law permits only ‘Class C Safe and Sane’ fireworks. If a firework explodes or shoots in the air, it’s illegal.”

        Fire protection agencies and associations across the nation are focusing this year’s education campaign on sparklers, a product that many consumers deem ‘risk-free.’

        “People consider sparklers to be harmless, but they’re not,” Swope noted. “They burn extremely hot – 1200 degrees Fahrenheit – and they can ignite clothing.”

        Fireworks also should never be used where they could ignite vegetation or structures, Swope said.

Class C fireworks include sparklers, cone fountains, ground spinners and noisemakers. Firecrackers and rockets are not legal for home use. You must be 16 years of age to purchase any fireworks in Kentucky.

     For those who choose to use fireworks at home, here are some do’s and don’ts.

DO:

·       Buy from a reliable seller.

·       Read and observe the label directions.

·       Keep water handy – either a bucket or hose.

·       Have adult supervision at all times.

·       Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and throwing them in a trash can.

 

DON’T:

·       Re-light a “dud” firework.

·       Give fireworks, including sparklers, to small children.

·       Throw or point fireworks at anyone.

·       Use fireworks close to dry vegetation, structure or any other material that could ignite.

·       Shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

 

Additional information on fireworks safety is available at the National Council on Fireworks Safety Web site, http://www.fireworksafety.com/safety.htm  and the National Fire Protection Association, http://www.nfpa.org/index.asp.

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