Westport Fire Marshal Issues Advisory On Use of Fireworks For July 4th

The following release is from the Westport Fire Department:

WESTPORT, CT — It’s that time of year again; the Fourth of July celebrations are upon us. Fire Marshal Terry Dunn would like to remind residents and visitors about the use of fireworks. Fire Marshal Dunn said, “The public has been overwhelmed with advertisement, signs, and sales pitches of so-called fireworks. It is important to understand that the only legal 'Fireworks' items in Connecticut are sparklers. Sparklers are non-explosive and non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic material.” Sparklers can only be legally used by persons aged 16 or older.

Novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut. In addition to being illegal exploding devices are dangerous. “The illegal exploding devices have caused painful and/or debilitating injuries. It’s simply not worth it!”, continued Fire Marshal Dunn.

The use of sky lanterns is also prohibited in Connecticut. Sky lanterns are typically small hot air balloons made of paper, with an opening at the bottom, where a small fire burns. The lantern, with the fire still burning, is released and then becomes airborne. The release of burning sky lanterns presents a serious risk of causing unintentional fires and injury. The flaming lantern can travel over long distances and drop onto roof tops, fields, trees, and power lines before the flame is fully extinguished.

This year our area has experienced dry conditions, making it very easy for fireworks, sparklers, and fountains to cause brush fires. Extreme caution must be exercised even with campfires as the fire danger has been elevated.

The penalty for possessing or causing to explode fireworks according to Connecticut General Statues 29-357 is a misdemeanor and could result in a fine or even incarceration.

On behalf of the men and women of the Westport Fire Department, we wish you a safe and enjoyable celebration... and leave the fireworks to the professionals.