IDHS: Celebrating Safely with the Right Fireworks

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INDIANAPOLIS - Fireworks have become so intertwined with Independence Day that people can hardly imagine the holiday without seeing a colorful explosion. 

Whether you are buying your own fireworks or going to see a professional display, safety must be kept top of mind. Fireworks explode, so while they are enjoyable to watch, they come with an inherent danger. Indiana law lays out strict regulations on which fireworks are legal for purchase by the public and how the fireworks can be used. 

Buy the right fireworks

It seems everyone wants the biggest, loudest and most colorful fireworks, but you need to ensure you only buy fireworks that are legal for consumers. 

There are primarily two types of fireworks: consumer fireworks (1.4g fireworks) and display fireworks (1.3g fireworks). The purchase and use of display fireworks are not legal without state and federal permits. 

Only buy fireworks from a verified company. Illegal fireworks can be poorly made and cause injury or death. They often look the same as consumer fireworks, but learn the indicators that a firework may be illegal.

Location

In general, consumer fireworks may only be used at

• Special discharge locations
• The property of the person using the fireworks 
• The property of another person who has given permission to use fireworks on their property 

Age

Fireworks may only be used by individuals who are 18 years or older unless under close adult supervision.

Proceed with caution

Fireworks should be handled carefully to ensure no trips to the emergency room are necessary. 

• Do not hold lit fireworks in your hands. 
• Never attempt to re-light or fix a "dud" firework. 
• Always have a supply of water or a fire extinguisher nearby to put out fireworks. Douse all fireworks before throwing them away. 

In 2023, 66 percent of reported fireworks injuries occurred in the weeks before and after the Fourth of July holiday. Below is the breakdown from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• 6,400 fireworks injuries were treated at hospitals from June 16 through July 16  
• 8 deaths were related to fireworks
• 800 injuries caused by firecrackers
• 700 injuries caused by sparklers
• 3 in 10 injuries were to children younger than 15 years old