The Sturgeon Bay Police would like to remind everyone if you are planning on lighting fireworks off this weekend remember to abide by Wisconsin State Laws. A few examples of fireworks allowed are: sparklers (36 inches in length or shorter), stationary cones and fountains, toy snakes, smoke bombs, caps, noisemakers, confetti poppers with less than ¼ grain of explosive mixture and novelty devices that spin or move on the ground.
Fireworks such as: firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets and mortars require permits and are illegal if you don’t have permits for them. A general rule is that if the device explodes or leaves the ground…it is illegal! If you chose to violate state law Officers can issue a citation, which is couple hundred dollars. Remember if you light fireworks off and cause damage to property or if someone is injured you could be held liable for those damages.
Remember if you choose to use consumer fireworks to celebrate this year's Fourth of July festivities, remember the following safety tips from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:
- A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.
- Never give fireworks to young children.
- Always purchase fireworks from reliable sources.
- Follow label directions carefully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them in metal or glass containers.
- Light them one at a time then move back quickly.
- Don't experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Observe local laws and use common sense.
- Sparklers, fountains and other items that many states allow for use by consumers are not appropriate when a large crowd is present.
- If attending a community display, leave your own fireworks at home -- there will be plenty of excitement provided by the display. Be patient with the traffic when leaving the community event.
- Always have a water supply near when lighting off fireworks.
