DA Warns Fireworks Are Illegal

You may have seen the tents set up all over town selling fireworks, sparklers and other types of Fourth of July-themed merchandise all over the Limerick-Royersford-Spring City area, as well as some in the Perkiomen Valley.

The staccato pops of strings of firecrackers are already audible throughout many neighborhoods in Montgomery County, but district attorney Risa Ferman and county sheriff Eileen Behr want to remind you: they are against the law.

Firecrackers, along with "pinwheels, torpedoes, jumping jacks, skyrockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial fireworks, blockbusters and cherry bombs," are illegal fireworks under the state's Health & Safety Act, the district attorney's office said in a press release issued Wednesday.

"Anyone who uses, sells or transports these materials without the appropriate permit is subject to arrest on charges of illegal transportation of explosive devices, risking a catastrophe, arson, assault and other charges stemming from the use of fireworks," the statement said.

The tents around town are under the jurisdiction of zoning for their permits to set up shop, as well as the building code office to ensure the safety of those properties.

The district attorney's office said by telephone on Thursday that police departments in the county would be "giving priority" to fireworks complaints this weekend.

"For the safety of the community, the District Attorney'ss Office and Sheriff's Department ask the general public to refrain from the use and sale of illegal fireworks this Fourth of July season and to instead enjoy fireworks at public displays that are managed by well-trained, licensed professionals," the statement said.

If you do choose to set off your own fireworks in a state/region where it is completely legal, there are some serious safety tips you should follow. Here is a list from Keystone Fireworks' website. Keystone Fireworks is the company that sponsors the tents around town, and about 300 total throughout the state of Pennsylvania:

Children Should Not Handle Fireworks
NEVER let children handle, play with or light any fireworks. Only adults should handle and light the fireworks. The fireworks are great family fun, but they burn hot and are intended to be handled only by adults.

Do Not Use Alcohol With Fireworks
Please do not consume alcohol while lighting fireworks. Fireworks must be used only by individuals who act in a responsible manner and who are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Follow The Laws
Follow your local and state laws regarding the possession and use of fireworks, and use good common sense when using fireworks. Read all directions, cautions, labels and warning on each individual fireworks item to understand the product performance and hazards associated with the use of the item.

Use Fireworks on a Hard Surface
Always light fireworks on a hard, flat level surface to insure the stability of the items. Grass is generally not suitable for any aerial items. If lighting on grass, lay down a flat wooden board for a shooting surface.

Use in a Clear, Open Area
Keep the audience, especially children, a safe distance away from the shooting site. Always light fireworks in a clear open area away from buildings and vehicles (a minimum of 30 feet for fountains and other ground-based items and 100 yards for any aerial product is recommended). Avoid lighting fireworks in any area where there is dry grass or brush that could catch fire. Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

Keep Clear of the Firework
Never put your head or any part of your body over the top of any firework product. Never hold lighted fireworks in your hand. Never look into a tube to check on the performance of the item.

Use Care in Lighting Fireworks
Always light fireworks products with a punk, flare or an extended butane lighting device, enabling you to keep as far from the product as possible. If needed, use a flashlight at night so the fuse can be seen - never use a lantern or other flame producing device near fireworks for illumination.Light the firework product and get away.

One at a Time
Only light one firework at a time.

Don't use Malfunctioning Items
Never attempt to re-light, alter or fix any "dud" firework.

Have Water Close By
Have an accessible fire extinguisher, water supply, hose or bucket of water nearby for emergencies.

Windy Conditions
Be cautious of lighting any aerial firework during strong wind conditions. The firework should be lit with the prevailing wind blowing away from the spectators. If there is a significant wind shift suring the time you are lighting the firework, the shooting site should be rearranged or the shoot should be postponed until the conditions improve.

Use Care in Handling Fireworks
Do not carry fireworks in your pocket. Always be careful in handling fireworks to prevent dropping them. Never smoke when handling fireworks.

Never Use Fireworks as Weapons
Never aim, point or throw fireworks at another person, or at any property or structure.

Store Fireworks Safely
Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place and dispose of fireworks properly.

Only Use Fireworks Outdoors
Never use fireworks indoors!

Purchase Fireworks From Reliable Dealers
Buy fireworks only from reliable, licensed fireworks dealers. Licensed and reliable dealers will carry only those products that meet standards enforced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Never make your own fireworks. Never modify an existing fireworks item.

Wear Safety Glasses
Safety glasses are recommended for those individuals lighting the fireworks and those individuals in close proximity to the fireworks.

Never Take Fireworks On An Airplane
It is a violation of federal law to carry fireworks on an airplane or transport fireworks in your luggage.