As you find joy in the dazzling colors of at-home fireworks this summer, we ask that you be mindful of your neighbors, who may have pets, young children, suffer from PTSD, or are otherwise disturbed by the lights and noise of fireworks. If you do plan on having some at-home fireworks, here are a few friendly reminders on fireworks usage:
- Fireworks shall not be ignited or discharged on any property without express permission of the property owner.
- Fireworks shall not be ignited or discharged on any public street or parkland at any time.
- Fireworks shall not discharged from or within a motor vehicle or building.
- Fireworks shall not discharged toward a person, motor vehicle or building.
- Fireworks shall not discharged within 150 feet of an occupied structure, whether or not a person is actually present.
- Fireworks shall not discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or another drug.
The PA State Police has a Fireworks FAQ page that has additional information. Please be advised that local ordinances on Disorderly Practices, most notably Unreasonable Noise, supplements the State Fireworks law. If Township records indicate that a prior warning has been issued for a violation of the State or Local law, a summons may be issued for repeat violations.
Also take note that display fireworks (more than 50mg) are illegal for consumer use. If you suspect someone is setting off large fireworks (or smaller ones in violation of state regulations, such as within 150 feet of an occupied structure), call 911 immediately and the police will investigate. Explosives such as M-80’s are federally regulated and civilian use requires a license issued by federal authorities.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on each 4th of July thousands of people, mostly teens and children are injured while using consumer fire works. These injuries include burns, cuts, permanent scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment and even death.
Fire is also a potential outcome of improper handling of fireworks. On the 4th of July, more fires are reported in the US than on any other day, with fireworks accounting for half of those fires (more than any other cause of fires). NFPA also reports that based on the amount of time and quantities in use, fireworks pose a higher risk of fire death than any other consumer product.
The best way to enjoy fireworks is to watch displays set off by trained professionals from a distance.
Have a happy and safe holiday!
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