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FIREWORKS

Each July 4th, thousands of people, most often kids and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks.

Facts About Fireworks
  • Minnesota Statute 624.20 allows for the public sale, possession and use of a limited number of, but not all, consumer fireworks.
  • Fireworks may not legally be used on public property, including parks, roads, alleys, schools and any government property.
  • Minnesota law specifies that you must be at least 18 years old to purchase consumer fireworks, and retailers are required to check ID.
  • Delayed combustion is not uncommon. People who try to relight a device often end up with damaged eyes or fingers.
  • Sparklers reach temperatures greater than 1200 degrees Fahrenheit and can cause serious burns by igniting clothing.
Fireworks Safety Tips
  • Attend community-sanctioned events. Establish a safe viewing area. The safest place to sit is at least 500 feet away from the staging area.
  • Read instructions on each device.
  • Always provide adult supervision and keep fireworks away from small children.
  • Use fireworks far from animals, buildings, storage tanks, brush and other combustibles.
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to cool spent sparkler wires and extinguish other fireworks.
  • Don't let anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs use fireworks.
  • Light one device at a time, and never attempt to relight a device that doesn’t ignite the first time.
  • If it looks damaged, don’t use it.



Acknowledgments:
National Fire Protection Association
Safe Kids Worldwide
Consumer Product Safety Commission