Fireworks Safety Tips for the 4th of July

Nothing lights up your 4th of July like some fireworks.

But before you plan to launch your own display, here's what you should know about fireworks safety and restrictions in Connecticut.

What's Legal in Connecticut

• "Sparklers and fountains" are the only legal fireworks for residents without permits. They must be "non-explosive" and "non-aerial" and cannot contain more than 100 grams of "pyrotechnic mixture."

• So, the "fireworks" sold in stores like in Avon, or at the tent in Canton are likely acceptable.

• Sparklers and fountains cannot contain magnesium, but "magnalium" and "magnesium-alumninum alloy" is allowed.

• The sparklers and fountains can't contain "chlorate" either, or perchlorate salts exceeding "five grams of composition per item."

• If more than one "fountain" is mounted on a base, the "pyrotechnic composition" can't be more than 200 grams. 

What Are Sparklers and Fountains?

• The state fire marshal's office defines sparklers as "a wire or stick coated with pyrotechnic composition that produces a shower of sparks upon ignition."

• According to the state fire marshal, a fountain is "any cardboard or heavy paper cone or cylindrical tube containing pyrotechnic mixture that upon ignition produces a shower of color sparks or smoke." Examples are spike fountains, base foutains and handle fountains. 

What Not to Do with Sparkers and Fountains

• Don't light them in the house, Avon Fire Marshal James DiPace said.

• Makes sure the sparklers or fountain heads are wetted down before you throw them out. Don't throw them right in the garbage can, he said.

• Kids under 16 should not buy or use consumer fireworks. Adult supervision is important.