{"id":167608,"date":"2023-06-30T21:11:43","date_gmt":"2023-07-01T02:11:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thevwindependent.com\/news\/?p=167608"},"modified":"2023-06-30T21:12:05","modified_gmt":"2023-07-01T02:12:05","slug":"fire-marshal-encourages-fireworks-safety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thevwindependent.com\/news\/2023\/06\/30\/fire-marshal-encourages-fireworks-safety\/","title":{"rendered":"Fire Marshal encourages fireworks safety"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

VW independent staff\/submitted information<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

COLUMBUS — This Fourth of July holiday weekend, the State Fire Marshal\u2019s Office is urging Ohioans to put safety first when it comes to fireworks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since last year, Ohioans may legally discharge 1.4G consumer fireworks in Ohio on certain days throughout the year unless the relevant political subdivision has chosen to ban their use. This July, those days are July 3, 4, and 5, and the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday immediately before and after July 4 from 4 p.m.-11 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were involved in more than 11,500 treated injuries in 2021, and injuries jumped 25 percent between 2006 and 2021. Nearly half of all fireworks injuries are to bystanders, many of them children. According to the State Fire Marshal\u2019s Fire Prevention Bureau, in Ohio, 163 fireworks-caused fire incidents have occurred since 2022, with 33 of those incidents resulting in building fires totaling nearly $750,000 in damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“We want Ohioans to have a great time during fireworks displays, but it’s crucial to understand the risks involved,\u201d said Anita Metheny, chief of the State Fire Marshal\u2019s Fire Prevention Bureau. \u201cBy staying informed, following the regulations, and taking necessary precautions, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July for everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As part of the new fireworks law unveiled in 2023, fountain devices are now available at more retailers across the state. Fountains are fireworks that are ground based. Once lit, they erupt sparks and often whistle or crackle. Fountain fireworks can reach heights of up to 20 feet. Check out the new regulations and keep fire safety in mind https:\/\/bit.ly\/3Pt3rQf<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even trick and novelty fireworks \u2013 those that smoke, sparkle, snap, and snake \u2013 are not without dangers to consumers. Ohioans are encouraged to follow these important safety tips when using trick or novelty fireworks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n