Fireworks safety tips from authorities

In January 2012, more powerful consumer-grade fireworks became legal in Michigan.

The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety issued some safety reminders about fireworks use.

KDPS provided the following tips:

• Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
• Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
• Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
• Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.
• Know your fireworks. Read the caution label before igniting. Do not light fireworks near flammable liquids, buildings and vehicles.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
• Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
• Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives: They can kill you!
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

The Michigan State Police provided these tips:

• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Never allow children to play with fireworks of any kind.
• Only light devices on smooth, flat surfaces away from residential areas, dry leaves and flammable materials.
• Always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction.

Additionally, KDPS reminded that sparklers, a common novelty-grade firework, burn hot at over 1,200 degrees. They issued the following tips about sparkler use:

• Always remain standing while using sparklers.
• Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
• Never hold, or light, more than one sparkler at a time.
• Never throw sparklers.
• Sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop spent sparklers in a bucket of water.
• Teach children not to wave sparklers, or run while holding sparklers.

More information can be found at The National Council on Fireworks Safety and the National Fire Protection Association.

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Complete fireworks coverage

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West Michigan fireworks ordinances:

- Grand Haven: Considering Grand Rapids-type ban, may add additional days around Coast Guard festival.
- Grand Rapids: Banned on all but the 30 days allowed under state law
- Grandville: Banned on all but the 30 days allowed under state law
- Ionia: Working on an ordinance similar to Grand Rapids
- Kalamazoo: No changes in the works
- Kentwood : Banned on all but the 30 days allowed under state law, minors can not possess or use
- Rockford: Passed a ban limiting the time fireworks can be used. No use between 11pm and 11am (except days allowed under state law)
- Saugatuck : Exploring options
- South Haven: No changes in the works
- Wyoming: Banned on all but the 30 days allowed under state law

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Fireworks Laws Online:

Michigan Fireworks Safety Act

State of Michigan fireworks FAQ (pdf)

Chart showing legal fireworks in Michigan