We can expect to hear fireworks that are louder, that can be shot higher into the air, and that can present even greater dangers than before if handled carelessly.
If you see fireworks being shot into the air within 200 feet of homes, being shot by children or by adults handling them carelessly or under the influence of alcohol to call 911.
Earlier this year the State changed the laws related to the sale and use of consumer fireworks (KRS227 ).
These are now legal to possess and use by adults. “Consumer Fire Works ” regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission are packaged in bright colors and have safety warnings on the packaging . The packaging sets forth the country of origin, which is normally China. Typical consumer fireworks include fountains, cones, sparklers, fire crackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, ground spinners and multi-shot products (some of which are aerial shells). Legal fireworks will have the words “Consumer Fireworks” on the label. They may also have a DOT placard on the shipping box listed [Explosive 1.4]
Illegal explosives including those for “Display” are often unpackaged and are wrapped with plain brown paper.
They are very unlikely to have any safety warnings, or place of manufacture. Many of them are hand made in illicit factories and other unsafe environments. They may go by names such as M80, Quarter Stick or Cherry Bomb. These are highly dangerous, either homemade or for professional display only.
Let's all be safe & sane and have a Happy 4th of July!
