The Indiana Department of Homeland has developed a few tips to ensure safety during Independence Day celebrations.
IDHS says fireworks can be purchased by persons 18 years of age or older. To ensure safety, however, it’s considered best to buy the items at licensed dealer locations. State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson says despite safety precautions, structure fires can certainly be started by their misuse.
“On a single day, the Fourth of July has the largest number of building fires than any other day of the year, and a lot of those fires are caused from misused or mishandled fireworks,” says Greeson.
Those celebrating with family and friends on July 4th are encouraged not to relight duds and to have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water handy in the instance something goes wrong.
For children, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security says “sparklers” are too dangerous for children to use. For children-at-heart, using alcohol while lighting fireworks is also discouraged.
Gresson says to know your limits.
“If you’re going to enjoy the holiday and partake in an alcohol beverage, limit yourself and if you’ve been drinking excessively, do not handle the firework,” says Greeson. “Let someone else do that.”
Fireworks have been allowed in Starke County all week and will continue during certain times after July 4th.
IDHS says to never throw or aim fireworks at another person.
