NEW YORK STATE, USA — As the 4th of July weekend approaches the New York State Governors office is reminding residents of what to know when displaying your own fireworks or even just watching them as a spectator.
“As we celebrate this 4th of July with family and friends, it’s important that everyone take proper precautions to keep each other safe,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers should exercise caution while using legal sparkling devices and enjoy this special day.”
Sparkling devices are defined as ground based or handheld devices that produce colored sparks and flames. Most also present a audible cracking noise, and smoke.
The law in NYS limits the type, size and construction of sparkling devices someone can use and requires that the devices must be handheld or mounted on a base or spike and be limited in sizes that range from 1 to 500 grams of pyrotechnic composition.
According to the Governors office "In 2022, the most recent data we have, there were 173 fireworks-related injury visits reported by emergency departments in New York State, with 125 of those visits reported between June 18 and July 18. Additionally, 25 percent of the visits during that period were by patients 18 years of age or under."
Common causes of firework-related injuries include:
- A fast-fuse firecracker explodes before it can be thrown.
- A misguided rocket strikes a bystander.
- A curious youngster goes to investigate why a firecracker “failed” to explode.
People should also take precautions when spectating professional displays by using earplugs, keeping a safe distance from the launch site, and leaving pets at home.
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “As we celebrate this annual 4th of July holiday with friends and family, it’s important to remember basic safety tips, especially when sparkling devices are involved. While fireworks and firecrackers may be part of the holiday tradition, these dangerous fire devices are illegal statewide and should not be used under any circumstances. If sparkling devices are legal in your area, make sure to always follow the instructions on the packaging and never allow children to play with or ignite the devices.”
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “No one wants to spend their holiday in the emergency room or with a visit from the fire department because of injuries or fires caused by fireworks. It’s easy to avoid the dangers of fireworks during the July 4th holiday and that is to leave them to the professionals.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Holidays are moments to have fun and spend time with loved ones, and we want everyone to do that safely. While July 4th fireworks are entertaining and beautiful to watch, I encourage New Yorkers to enjoy community firework displays put on by professionals and not put themselves or anyone else at risk with illegal personal fireworks.”
It's also good to know what is legal and what isn't legal when dealing with fireworks in NYS:
What’s Legal:
- Sale of sparkling devices by registered sellers from June 1 until July 5 annually. Sparkling devices are ground-based or handheld sparking devices that produce a shower of colored sparks or colored flame, crackling or whistling noise and smoke. They do not launch into the air.
- The possession and use of sparkling devices in cities with populations of less than one million people and as permitted by local law. Be sure to check that sparkling devices are legal in your city, town, or county as local laws may change. You can contact your local sheriff’s office to ask whether your area allows the use of sparkling devices.
- Users must be 18 years or older to use sparkling devices.
What’s Not Legal:
- The possession and use of sparkling devices in cities with populations of more than one million people and where prohibited by local law, including New York City and the following counties: Albany, Bronx, Columbia, Erie, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange (prohibited in the Cities of Middletown and Newburgh only), Queens, Richmond, Schenectady, Suffolk, Warren and Westchester.
- Fireworks and dangerous fireworks, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners and aerial devices, are illegal statewide.
More tips from the Governors office include:
- Children and sparklers are a dangerous combination. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This is hot enough to melt some metals.
- Never throw or point fireworks toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
- Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
- Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.”
- Always use fireworks outdoors. Never light sparklers or fireworks inside.
- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
- If you are impaired by alcohol, don’t use fireworks.
To to learn more click here.
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