Press releases

Edina Fire Department reminds residents of fireworks laws

Edina, Minn., June 19, 2008 -- In 2007, 67 fireworks-related injuries were reported in Minnesota, up 15 percent from 58 injuries in 2006. Nearly half of those injuries affected children and young adults ages 0 to 19.

In an attempt to keep fireworks-related injuries at a minimum this year, the Edina Fire Department would like to remind residents of Minnesota’s fireworks laws and discourage the use of illegal consumer fireworks.

In Minnesota, it is against the law to buy, sell or possess any fireworks that are explosive and/or fly through the air. This includes, but is not limited to, firecrackers, bottle rockets, missile rockets, aerial spinners, Roman Candles, artillery shells and parachutes. Violating this law can result in up to one year in jail or fines up to $3,000, depending on the amount of fireworks in possession. The Edina Fire and Police Departments will respond to complaints and confiscate all illegal fireworks. Certified operators who receive permits from local jurisdictions for professional displays are exempt from the law.

“Basically, if it goes ‘boom’ or flies through the air, it is illegal,” said Edina Fire Marshal Tom Jenson.

Fireworks that are legal in Minnesota include wire or wood sparklers and other non-explosive and non-aerial sparkling items like cylindrical and cone fountains, ground spinners, strobes and novelty items like snakes, glow worms, smoke devices, party poppers and snappers. These fireworks are not allowed on public property and should be used with caution on private property only.

If a resident intends to use legal fireworks, the Fire Department has a list of safety guidelines that should be followed at all times.

• Always read, understand and follow all instructions.
• Keep fireworks away from small children and do not let children use fireworks unsupervised.
• Choose a safe place that is a good distance from anything that could start on fire or be damaged.
• Keep fireworks in a cool, dry location. Do not allow them to get wet or try to use them upon drying.
• Keep lit cigarettes, cigars and pipes away from where fireworks are stored.
• Never light fireworks inside another container like a bottle or can.
• Never throw fireworks at another person or point them toward a building.
• Light only one firework at a time, then move away quickly.
• If a firework has ignited, but failed to go off, stay away for several minutes to be sure it is a “dud.” Soak it in water before handling it.
• Never place any part of your body over fireworks when lighting.
• Never relight malfunctioning fireworks.
• Do not attempt to alter fireworks. Federal law prohibits making one’s own fireworks.

Nationwide, more fires are reported on Independence Day than on any other day of the year, with fireworks accounting for more than half of them. In 2006, $384,000 of damages resulted from fireworks use in Minnesota.

“All fireworks are explosive and dangerous,” said Jenson. “This 4th of July, please leave the fireworks to the professionals to ensure a fun and safe experience.”

For more information on fireworks laws and safety, visit www.CityofEdina.com/Fire or call the Edina Fire Department at 952-826-0339.