MICHIGAN (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan’s 4th of July fireworks window is now underway.
Although many Michiganders may have already heard or saw them in the past weeks, technically fireworks can only be launched from June 29th until the night of July 4th and only until 11:45 p.m. each allowed night.
Under the Fireworks Safety Act those who light fireworks outside of the holiday window can get a $1000 ticket, but many local police departments have said in the past that fireworks complaints are hard to resolve because it can be challenging to pinpoint where they are comning from.
Authorities add that fireworks cannot be lit on public property. That includes streets, sidewalks, church and school properties, among others. It’s also illegal to discharge under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
A list on permitted fireworks in Michigan can be found at michigan.gov.
In addition, Michiganders must remember to be safe when using fireworks this holiday.
Although sparklers may seem harmless, they can get extremely hot and cause severe burns. In fact the National Safety Council says sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals. The National Fire Protection Association adds that sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries.
Fireworks can also lead to fires. E.S.C.A.P.E. Fire Safety‘s Michael McLeeir says two out of every every five fires reported on the 4th of July are started by fireworks.
Here are some tips from the NSC to stay safe while celebrating Independence Day.
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks
- Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
- Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
- Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
- Never light them indoors
- Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person
- Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
- Never ignite devices in a container
- Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
- Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
- Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire
- Never use illegal fireworks
