NORTH HAVEN — As the Fourth of July and summer celebrations approach, Chief Paul Januszewski and the North Haven Fire Department would like to remind residents that the use of fireworks is illegal in Connecticut.
It is illegal in Connecticut for non-professional, non-licensed individuals to purchase, use, possess or sell fireworks. Items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut. Additionally, residents are prohibited from purchasing fireworks elsewhere and transporting them into the state.
Sparklers and fountains, which are not considered fireworks in the state of Connecticut, may be sold, but may not legally be sold to, or used by persons younger than 16.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were an estimated 9,100 fireworks-related, emergency department-treated injuries in 2018.
The North Haven Fire Department recommends that residents only attend displays put on by a licensed professional to ensure safety.
“In wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, fireworks displays in our communities celebrating the Fourth of July and other special occasions may be cancelled as a precautionary measure,” Chief Januszewski said. “Anyone attending displays should abide by proper social distancing guidelines and not engage in the use of illegal fireworks. To ensure everyone’s safety no child under the age of 16 should use sparklers, fountains, lighters or matches as they pose significant danger if not handled properly.”
Residents should always:
- Watch fireworks displays from a safe distance.
- Call 911 if anyone gets injured by fireworks.
- Set a positive example for children by not using illegal fireworks. If kids see adults using them, they may not realize the dangers and could be encouraged to pick up matches or lighters.
- Be careful around even the smallest fireworks. Sparklers burn at 1,800 degrees and could easily cause severe burns and injuries.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the misuse of fireworks can cause death and injuries including severe burns, contusions, lacerations, eye injuries and more.
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