Firework safety: What Ohio law says about fireworks

By Franchesca Hackworth

Safety agency warns about sparkler safety this Fourth of July The CPSC has issued safety tips for consumers using fireworks on the Fourth of July. (Photo by Michael Smith/Getty Images) (Michael Smith/Getty Images)

By Franchesca Hackworth

Do you plan to enjoy or display a firework show this Fourth of July weekend? Here’s what you need to know about Ohio law and what safety precautions you need to take.

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Residents of Ohio may purchase consumer or 1.4g fireworks from a licensed wholesaler; however, you cannot discharge any consumer or 1.4g fireworks in the State of Ohio, according to the Ohio State Bar Association.

Ohio law states that you must transport all fireworks purchased in Ohio out of the state within 48 hours of the purchase.

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Items acceptable to discharge in Ohio are designated “trick and novelty,” meaning items that smoke, pop or sparkle.

The use of 1.4g fireworks including firecrackers and bottle rockets is illegal, according to the Ohio State Bar Association.

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Large firework displays that many will enjoy are however allowed to be discharged by a licensed exhibitor with a local permit if the permit is approved by both the local fire chief and the local chief law enforcement officer after the exhibition site has been inspected using an Ohio Fire Marshal checklist.

If you choose to use fireworks, consider the following safety tips given by the National Safety Council:

  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks
  • Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
  • Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
  • Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person
  • Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
  • Never ignite devices in a container
  • Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
  • Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
  • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
  • Never use illegal fireworks
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