Independence day means fireworks and the pyromaniacs are crowding firework stands to celebrate America’s independence with a boom.
But one can bet that each year some folks get busted for shooting fireworks in jurisdictions where it’s not allowed. How can you be sure it’s legal in your area? State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says you can call your city and parish authorities, but there’s an easier way to know.
“We only permit stands if that jurisdiction where it is physically located allows the sale and use,” Browning said.
Fireworks are prohibited anywhere in Orleans or East Baton Rouge Parish, and a number of other large cities throughout Louisiana.
Look to see that there is a Fire Marshal’s permit when you walk in to buy your fireworks, to know you’re getting safe product, and Browning says don’t buy off the back of some guy’s truck…
“Many accidents that occur we find involve devices that are not approved by the state or have been remanufactured,” he said.
Once you’re ready to start firing off the pyrotechnics, make sure you have two things close by.
“Have a bucket of water, have a water hose handy, those are both good mitigation practices to put those embers out," Browning said.
Don’t hold fireworks, and never operate them if you’ve been drinking, make sure you have at least 200 feet of open space to fire them off in, and have a metal bucket for the remains of discharged fireworks.