The Division of State Fire Marshal (SFM) today announced that at least nine fireworks investigations were conducted throughout Ohio near the Independence Day weekend. Six people, including one firefighter, were injured in fireworks incidents, one fireworks-related fire was reported and more than 5,000 pounds of fireworks were seized. There may have been additional fireworks-related incidents that have not yet been reported to the SFM.
A firefighter sustained minor injuries in a July 4 house fire caused by fireworks in Middletown and at least three men were injured using illegal backyard fireworks. Two men in Brown County were injured after a professional fireworks shell ignited in close proximity in an earthen mortar tube the created with a post hole digger. At least three professional exhibitors were injured when professional fireworks shells detonated prematurely or equipment failed during public fireworks exhibitions.
“The Division of State Fire Marshal worked around the clock leading up to and including the July 4 holiday weekend in an effort to keep Ohio’s citizens safe and to prevent the possession and use of illegal fireworks,” said State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers. “Despite our best efforts, injuries still occurred which further underscores just how dangerous these explosive devices can be.”
Under Ohio law, only a licensed manufacturer or wholesaler can sell consumer, or 1.4g, fireworks. Anyone over the age of 18 may purchase these items, but must sign a form certifying that the purchaser will transport the fireworks outside the state of Ohio within 48 hours. 1.4g fireworks cannot be discharged legally in the state of Ohio.
Professional, or 1.3g, fireworks, can only be sold by a licensed manufacturer, wholesaler, or under limited circumstances, an out-of-state shipper. Professional fireworks can only be sold to a licensed manufacturer, wholesaler or exhibitor. These fireworks can only be discharged by a licensed exhibitor in accordance with Ohio laws regarding exhibitions.
