Published: July 03, 2009 10:02 pm      

Residents reminded to use caution when using fireworks

As the Independence Day picnics and celebrations get under way, anyone who plans to include fireworks in their festivities should remember safety is first.

To ensure a safe Fourth of July, emergency officials remind people of the new laws regarding fireworks.

According to Indiana law, fireworks can be set off between 9 a.m. and midnight on the holiday, or between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on other days.

The law also states that only individuals over the age of 18 can purchase fireworks. A person 18 years of age or older has to be present when anyone younger than 18 is using or possessing fireworks.

When launching off fireworks, location is the key.

People can only discharge fireworks on their property or the property of someone who granted permission for fireworks to be discharged, or a place designated by the Indiana State fire marshal for the discharge of consumer fireworks.

A person who violates this law can be charged with a Class C infraction.

A person recklessly, knowingly or intentionally using fireworks can be charged with a class A misdemeanor if the violation causes property damage. The offense is enhanced to a class D felony if there is bodily injury, and a C felony if there is a death.

Kokomo police and the Kokomo Fire Department also warn people of the dangers of fireworks.

In 2005, the use of fireworks resulted in more than 1,800 structure fires and 700 vehicle fires across the country.

Reported injuries were even more dramatic, said Fire Inspector Dan Zehner of the Kokomo Fire Department.

In 2006, an estimated 9,200 people were treated at hospitals for injuries that were firework-related. One-third of those injured were to individuals under the age of 15.

The most commonly used fireworks, such as fountains and sparklers, accounted for more than 28 percent of these injuries, according to state police.

Fireworks should only be set off outdoors from a stable, level surface with a source of water nearby. Also, users should never relight a firework that goes out or does not discharge.

State police encourage adults to constantly supervise the use of fireworks by children to reduce the risk of injury.

“In the past, children have suffered needless burns on their arms and hands as a result of improperly using bottle rockets, fire crackers and sparklers,” Sgt. Tony Slocum said.

Fireworks can cause serious injuries such as blindness, burns and permanent scaring if not used properly, and local law enforcement agencies encourage everyone to use caution to ensure a safe and happy holiday.

• Mike Fletcher is the Kokomo Tribune crime reporter. He can be reached at (765) 454-8577 or mike.fletcher@kokomotribune.com.