WHPD On Fireworks: 'Ooh' And 'Aah' Can Become 'Oh No'

WEST HARTFORD, CT — With a festive Fourth of July expected this coming weekend, local police are reminding residents of the legalities surrounding fireworks ... as well as the dangers.

This week, a warning about fireworks written by the West Hartford Police Department is visible on the town's webpage.

Essentially, police reiterated the type of fireworks that frequently cause "oohs and aahs" in the backyard are, in Connecticut, illegal.

"Section 29-357 (a) of the Connecticut General Statutes prohibits the sale, possession with intent to sell, and use or exploding any fireworks in the State of Connecticut and section 128-3 of the West Hartford Code of Ordinances prohibits the use fireworks on property owned by the Town’s park and recreation department," wrote police.

"A violation of state laws and local ordinances may result in criminal charges and with prosecution, may include fines and jail time."

Plus, police said such fireworks — dubbed by the department as "novelty items" — are dangerous.

"Please leave fireworks displays to licensed professionals using regulated products while following fire safety regulations," police said.

In the past, fireworks have caused house fires, grass fires, injuries and even death, police said.

They said sparklers and fountains, both of which are non-explosive and non-aerial devices, are the exception and legally may only be sold to and used by someone over 16 years old.

"People using permitted fireworks are responsible for damages and injuries that result from their use," police said.

Aside from safety concerns, police said frequent fireworks use, legal or not, is also a matter of common courtesy to neighbors.

"In addition, residents are asked to be considerate to your surrounding neighbors and be aware of the noise fireworks create," police said. "Keep in mind that fireworks startle young children, pets and neighbors."

They said individuals found to be in possession or are seen using illegal fireworks are subject to arrest.

All fireworks complaints should be directed to the West Hartford Police Department at 860-523-5203.

For the full bulletin on fireworks use in West Hartford, click on this link and look for "town news."