Officials urge 'common sense' in handling fireworks

The sounds of the season are in the air and local firefighters want to remind you to use caution when handling fireworks.

"Use common sense," explained Linton Fire Captain Tom Robison.

Watch out for kids and fireworks.

"Kids should always be supervised. Be smart about it and don't always trust fireworks," Robison added.

Fireworks can lead to injuries if they aren't safely handled.

"Adults should be smart about what they let kids shoot off," Robison said. "There are more injuries with fireworks due to burns than anything else."

Open fields are the best place to light fireworks, he noted. A fire extinguisher or hose should also be kept nearby if possible.

"Don't shoot into the woods or a dry area and always watch your surroundings. With fireworks comes fire," he added.

Bottle rockets and Roman candles can ricochet and cause harm or fire.

"It's pretty dry outside so just be safe," Robison said. "We want people to have fun but be smart about it. For the most part fireworks are safe if you use sense."

The following are Indiana fireworks provisions:

* Fireworks may be used only on the user's property; or on the property of someone who has consented to the use of fireworks; or at a special discharge location.

* Fireworks can be purchased only by persons 18 years of age or older and children may possess or use any kind of firework only when an adult is present.

* Penalties for violating the fireworks law can range from a Class A misdemeanor up to a Class C felony in the case of the reckless or intentional use of fireworks that results in a person's death.

* On Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day and New Year's Eve, fireworks may be discharged from 9 a.m. to midnight. Any other day of the year fireworks may be discharged from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Local laws may further affect fireworks use.