With the Fourth of July set on a Tuesday this year, many people will make celebrating Independence a four-day event ? that has Independence Township Fire Marshal Greg Olrich worried.
‘Because this year is kind of a four-day weekend, I’m real concerned we’re going to have people shooting off fireworks for all four days,? said Olrich, who explained many people have a false sense of security when dealing with fireworks.
‘My fear is if friends and neighbors come to (residents?) houses after a party and start shooting them off. People have to recognize the harm they put their family and property at risk for.?
Despite laws in Michigan, which make it illegal to sell, possess, transport or use fireworks without a permit, Olrich knows many people will use illegal fireworks during the holiday.
‘The rule of thumb is if it spins, bangs or leaves the ground it’s illegal,? said Olrich. ‘The laws locally and statewide have not changed that much over the years.
‘First (people should) know they are illegal, but in most cases (when people use mortar-type fireworks) there’s no way they’re having the proper clearance,? he added.
While Olrich did not advocate the use of illegal fireworks, he still worries about the lack of information people have if they do decide to use illegal fireworks. He stated most people shoot fireworks into the air without proper clearance, which he estimates is 70 feet of clearance per inch of shell. People also often do not shoot fireworks from the proper containers.
According to a fireworks law enforcement guide from the Michigan State Police, there are legal fireworks that do not require a permit including: flat paper caps, toy trick noise makers, sparklers, flitter sparklers, cone-shaped fountains that emit a shower of sparks and sometimes whistle, toy snakes and toy smoke devices.
Fireworks are regulated by Michigan law and are punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $100 fine. Illegal fireworks are subject to confiscation and disposal.
The combination of illegal fireworks and alcohol is another potential pitfall during the holiday weekend.
‘Around the Fourth of July, generally by the time people are ready to shoot off fireworks, it’s night and many have partied all day. Fireworks, even if legal, are a bad mix with alcohol,? said Olrich.
To celebrate the Fourth safely, Olrich recommends leaving the light shows to the professionals.
‘My suggestion if you want to a fireworks show, go see a professional. They have to go through so many regulations? they are a safer way to go. Due to having to get approval of a professional show, you can be pretty assured it’s going to be a safe arrangement,? said Olrich.
For questions regarding the use or misuse of fireworks during weekdays call 248-625-1924. For inquiries and reports during nights and weekends call 911.