Fireworks are a tradition at 4th of July celebrations across the country, from hand-held sparklers to breathtaking professional displays. While fireworks make the holiday more festive, a happy occasion can turn tragic in a matter of seconds when someone is seriously hurt. In fact, last year eight people were killed in fireworks accidents and 9,700 people received emergency treatment for fireworks-related injuries. In addition, private citizens have to adhere to various state and local laws that regulate when and where fireworks can be set off as well as which kinds are permitted for personal use.
Here is a guide to using fireworks safely and lawfully this holiday weekend.
WHAT DAYS ARE FIREWORKS ALLOWED UNDER MICHIGAN LAW?
While Michigan law regulates the use of fireworks across the state, some municipalities have their own ordinances. Therefore, it is wise to check with your city, township or other local government entity to learn the rules that apply to your neighborhood.
Following is a list of dates and time periods when fireworks are allowed. Although fireworks are most commonly associated with the 4th of July, they are permitted on other holidays as well.
- New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) from 11 a.m. through New Year’s Day (Jan. 1) at 1 a.m.
- Saturday and Sunday immediately before Memorial Day from 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. each day
- Saturdays and Sundays from June 29th through July 4th from 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. each day
- July 5, if it falls on a Friday (as it does this year), or Saturday from 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday immediately before Labor Day, from 11 a.m. until 11:45 p.m. each day
However, state and local governments and fire departments can prohibit fireworks at any time because of hazardous weather conditions or other circumstances that would pose a safety risk.
In addition, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase fireworks. The law also prohibits using fireworks while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Violating a fireworks law may result in a fine of up to $500. Fireworks sellers who violate laws can be subject to higher fines.
ARE THERE LAWS ABOUT WHERE PRIVATE CITIZENS CAN SET OFF FIREWORKS?
Yes. Consumer-grade fireworks, the kind sold to the public at retail outlets, may only be used on private property such as a home. Fireworks can be used on someone else’s property as long the owner gives permission.
It is illegal to set off fireworks on public property such as schools, religious institutions, community centers or sidewalks.
Aerial fireworks such as Roman candles and bottle rockets are not permitted at Michigan state parks, trails and harbors.
“Novelty” fireworks such as sparklers, snakes and poppers may be used at state parks and campgrounds.
However, because fireworks are known to trigger PTSD in people who served in combat zones, the Michigan Department of National Resources, in cooperation with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, encourages those using campgrounds and parks to consider other ways to celebrate the holiday.
WHICH KINDS OF FIREWORKS ARE PERMITTED FOR PERSONAL USE?
Individuals can use the following types of fireworks as long as they comply with the specified days and times and are used only on private property:
Aerial fireworks
- Roman candles
- Bottle rockets
- Missile type rockets
- Aerials
- Reloadable shell devices
- Firecrackers
- Helicopter/aerial spinners
- Single tube device with report
Novelty items and low-impact fireworks*
- Sparklers
- Snaps
- Poppers
- Snakes
- Ground sparkling devices
- Ground-based or handheld sparklers
- Smoke devices
*These may be used at state parks and campgrounds.
FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
Because fireworks are classified as hazardous substances under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA), it is important to use them safely. This includes sparklers, which look harmless but can become hot enough to melt metal.
These fireworks safety tips will help you enjoy the holiday and avoid injuries:
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks
- Have an adult supervise all fireworks activities
- Never lean over a fireworks device when you light the fuse
- Do not point or throw fireworks at another person
- Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby when using fireworks
- Douse used fireworks thoroughly before discarding
- Remember that sparklers can reach temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and should not be used by children without adult supervision
- Check the rules for using fireworks in your area as some municipalities have ordinances that differ from state laws
- Only purchase and use fireworks that are labeled for consumer (not professional) use
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs
- Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly after lighting
- Thoroughly soak and discard malfunctioning fireworks rather than trying to relight them
- Avoid placing any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse
- Never point or throw fireworks, including sparklers, at other people or pets
OUR EXPERIENCED PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS CAN HELP YOU WIN THE COMPENSATION YOU DESERVE
While we wish everyone a safe and happy holiday, we know accidents can happen to the most careful individuals. If you or a loved one is injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, we can help.
Our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys have a longstanding track record of winning large settlements for victims of all kinds of accidents, and we will do the same for you and your family.
Personal injury law is complicated, but finding the right personal injury lawyer is simple.
Start your case today by clicking on the link below or calling 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our experienced legal team.
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