Fireworks for the Indiana Family

Fireworks for the Indiana Family

According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, there were 9,800 fireworks-related injuries in 2007, and one-third of the people injured were younger than 15 years old. Before you make a fireworks show part of your summer celebrations, make sure you understand Indiana firework laws and know how to stay safe when using fireworks.

According to Indiana state fireworks use laws, fireworks may only be purchased by someone 18 or older. Anyone younger than 18 may only use fireworks under the supervision of an adult. On Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day and New Year’s Eve, fireworks may be discharged from 9 a.m. to midnight. Any other day of the year, they may be discharged from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Those who are caught violating these laws are subject to penalties.

A 5 percent public safety fee added to firework sales funds the Indiana Disaster Relief Fund and the Indiana Firefighter Training System.

Stay Safe Around the Sparkle

A safe option for children is to forgo shooting off fireworks altogether and attend a community event with a professional firework show. If you do decide to have your own firework show at home, however, be cautious of strong winds, and light fireworks with the wind blowing away from spectators. Ensure your child stays back from the spot where you are launching the fireworks and enjoys the show from a safe distance.

While older children may wish to light fireworks such as bottle rockets on their own, it’s best to leave this task to an adult. You may consider allowing older elementary-aged children to use confetti poppers and sparklers—but still be sure these items are used only with adult supervision.

If your child sustains a minor injury during firework festivities and you’re unsure if it warrants emergency attention, call 317.338.KIDS for advice.

Reviewed by Mitchell Goldman, D.O., F.A.A.E.M., F.A.A.P., medical director, Hilbert Pediatric Emergency Department, Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent.

 

DISCLAIMER: Neither Indiana USDA Mortgages (IndianaUSDAmortgages.com) nor Luminate Home Loans is affiliated with any government agencies, including the USDA.