Fire Safety Compliance Manager: ‘read the instructions’ before shooting off fireworks

Posted on July 2, 2019

By Blake Haas

BLOOMINGTON – With America’s birthday right around the corner, Illinois’ Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding the public about state firework laws and safety.

Fire Safety Compliance Manager Bob Wetzel, said although the fireworks contain eye-popping packaging, there are still risks involved.

“The most important thing is to know what it is you are buying,” said Wetzel. “Take a few minutes and read the instructions on the label or the package. That is very important. If for example, the device says do not hold in your hand, it’s not designed to be hand-held. If you don’t use it appropriately, you might suffer a significant injury.

Novelties items like party poppers and sparklers are legal. Wetzel added that cake mines and tubes are also permitted if you have the proper permit.

“Illinois has adopted a standard that anytime consumer fireworks are being used in the state of Illinois, and the launch site must be 200 ft. away from other people, structures, clear over-head wires, and also from property line,” added Wetzel.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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