Fines Issued For HoCo Residents Who Use Illegal Fireworks

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — County officials are encouraging residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely. Because the county's annual fireworks show has been canceled, officials acknowledge that residents likely will celebrate at home.

“Fireworks are inherently dangerous, although there are other states that sell ground-based sparklers, we want to remind residents that those are illegal in Howard County,” said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball in a statement. “Although handheld sparklers and other small 'popper' type fireworks are legal, they still can be very dangerous, especially in the hands of small children. While we all wish we could be enjoying the annual fireworks display at the lakefront this weekend, we hope that however you choose to celebrate Independence Day this year, you do so safely and responsibly.”

Officials also remind residents that in Howard County, the sale, possession and residential use of devices like ground-based sparklers is illegal and violators will be subject to a fine of up to $1,000. While devices known as party poppers, ignitable snakes, snap ’n pops and handheld sparklers are legal, they can be dangerous. Handheld sparklers can reach 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which can cause significant injuries.

Those who do purchase legal fireworks should follow these safety tips from the CPSC:

• After a display, children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over, as they may still be active and/or hot to the touch.
• Douse used fireworks with a significant amount of water and leave them for several hours.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire.
• Adults should always supervise fireworks activities and never let children handle fireworks.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.