Springfield Assistant Fire Chief Brian Miller detailed which fireworks are legal to use in the state.
“They’re what’s called ‘novelty,’” Miller said. “That’s the sparklers and snap pops that give off the smoke fireworks.”
Prior to 2015, consumers who bought prohibited fireworks in Ohio had to sign an agreement stating they will take them out of Ohio within 48 hours. Gov. John Kasich signed a provision that year eliminating that requirement. Still, using them in the state can result in a misdemeanor and a fine up to $1,000.
Certain fireworks are restricted to prevent accidents and fires in residential areas. About 10,000 injuries involving fireworks are reported each year throughout the country, according to Miller.
“Everyone likes to enjoy the fireworks … but they certainly cause a lot of injuries,” he said. “About 1,400 injuries alone are from sparklers.”
Miller says it’s best to attend a show where experts have considered all of the necessary safety precautions. The 22nd annual Old-Fashioned Fireworks will be held at dusk Friday, July 1, at the Clark County Fairgrounds, 4401 South Charleston Pike.
The gates will open at 6 p.m. and music will begin at 7 p.m. at the grandstands. No alcohol is permitted. The fireworks typically begin about 10 p.m.
The rain date for this event will be July 2.
“If you’re going to have the novelty fireworks, I suggest parents watch your kids, have a bucket of cold water and make sure you get them cooled off,” Miller said. “Supervision is the key.”
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