Fireworks Safety – Leave them to the Professionals!

Fourth of July is often celebrated with fireworks displays by many communities. Unfortunately, many individuals also purchase fireworks illegally for their own home display.

The Skokie Police Department reminds residents that most fireworks are illegal in the State of Illinois. It is unlawful for anyone to possess or discharge fireworks in Skokie and the State of Illinois. Fireworks include but are not limited to firecrackers, skyrockets, Roman candles, etc.

A special permit and license must be acquired through the State Fire Marshal in order to display fireworks. The only legal fireworks (class C explosives) are sparklers, smoke bombs and caps. The hazards with these, and any type of fireworks, occurs when children become involved. Fireworks cause numerous fires and injure many people each year. The majority of fireworks injuries involve victims under the age of 15 with many of those injuries to preschool-aged children. Fireworks are fun to look at but should be left to professionals at public displays.

Don’t risk your, your family’s or your neighbor’s safety with illegal fireworks. Rather, go to Skokie’s July 4th celebration to watch the 3-D fireworks at Niles West High School. Please visit www.skokieparks.org for more details.