Fire Marshal: be safe with home fireworks

VW independent staff/submitted information

Anyone planning to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks is reminded to always follow state laws. Since 2022, the Ohio Fire Code has permitted the use of 1.4G consumer-grade fireworks (indicated on the packaging) on certain dates, including July 3-5 from 4 to 11 p.m., unless prohibited by local ordinances. In Van Wert County, there are no laws against the use of 1.4G fireworks. However, state laws will be enforced.

Adults who plan on making a last-minute shopping trip for fireworks should only purchase them from reputable and licensed retailers. A retailer’s license can be verified by searching for them on the Division’s online database here. Consumers should never buy, tamper with, dismantle, or attempt to manufacture homemade fireworks, as they are extremely dangerous and illegal.

Fireworks in general cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage each year in Ohio. From December 31, 2024 to January 3, 2026, there were approximately 110 fireworks related incidents in Ohio with over $400,000 in property loss.

“It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday and to let your guard down when it comes to safety,” State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon said. “Unfortunately, that’s the root cause behind many visits to the emergency room this time of year. Fireworks are not toys and they should only be handled by adults who understand how to safely use them.”

For those planning to use fireworks, the National Safety Council recommends the following safety tips:

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
• Never hold lit fireworks in your hand.
• Never light fireworks indoors.
• Only use fireworks away from people, homes, and flammable materials.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Light only one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Never ignite fireworks inside a container.
• Do not attempt to re‑light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that fail to go off or in case of fire.

Even trick or novelty fireworks, such as items that smoke, sparkle, snap, or snake, pose risks when not handled properly. The Division encourages the following safety guidelines:

• Only use trick and novelty devices under close adult supervision.
• Understand the hazards associated with each type of device.
• Carefully read and follow all package instructions.
• Light only one sparkler at a time and hold it away from yourself and others.
• Sparklers should only be used by individuals aged 12 or older.
• Immediately place used sparkler wires in a bucket of water, as they can remain hot for several minutes.