Fireworks Dangerous, Illegal for Youth

FIREWORKS ARE DANGEROUS, ILLEGAL FOR YOUTH

Detroit Fire Marshal Herbert K. White reminds parents that it is illegal for children and teens under 18 to possess fireworks in Detroit, according to Detroits fireworks ordinance.

Fire Marshal White stresses that fireworks can be very dangerous in the hands of a child. He added that the number of reported fireworks-related burns typically increases during the summer months because safety precautions are disregarded. Children have suffered such horrific injures as second- and third-degree burns and the loss of fingers and even entire hands due to fireworks accidents in recent years.

Fire Marshal White recommends that all residents refrain from any use of fireworks. However, if residents use fireworks, the Fire Marshal urges parental supervision when children are using legal fireworks such as sparklers, caps, smoke bombs and toy snakes not containing mercury.

Those who decide to use fireworks should adhere to the following precautions:

• Make certain an adult is present whenever fireworks are used.
• Always read and follow instructions on fireworks packaging.
• Dont give any type of firecracker or sparkler to young children.
• Ignite fireworks outside and away from the house, garage or any area with dry brush or rubbish.
• Dont ignite fireworks inside any container, glass bottle or metal cylinders.
• Never experiment with fireworks, especially around vehicles that may contain residual flammable liquids i.e. gasoline
• Light fireworks one at a time.
• Always keep a safe distance.
• Never try to re-light fireworks that malfunction.
• Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place.

The Citys fireworks ordinance emphasizes the restrictions involving the possession and sale of fireworks, Fire Marshal White said. The ordinance prohibits the sale of any type of fireworks to anyone under 18 years of age and mandates that anyone wishing to sell legal fireworks must first obtain a license from the City.

For more information, or for a copy of the ordinance, please contact the Detroit Fire Marshals Division, Public Instruction Section at 596-2968.