MCFRS News Release
Leave Fireworks to the Professionals this Fourth of July
Fireworks are not only dangerous, but ILLEGAL.
Fireworks are extremely dangerous and can quickly change a safe and happy Fourth of July into a sad and costly one. Fire Rescue Chief Richard Bowers reminds residents that ALL consumer fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Maryland. Anyone possessing, transporting or using fireworks in Montgomery County is in violation of the law and is at risk for prosecution.
“One of the smartest and safest ways to enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks is by attending one of the many public displays of fireworks conducted by licensed professionals,” said Chief Bowers. “Fireworks can be extremely dangerous and we’re asking residents to enjoy the holiday but leave the show to the professionals.”
When attending professional fireworks displays, please remember:
- Obey and respect all safety barriers set up.
- Resist the temptation to get close to the firing site. Often, the best view is from a quarter of a mile or more away.
- Leave your pets at home - the loud noise can scare animals and hurt their sensitive hearing.
- Do not possess or shoot off fireworks on your own. Besides risking injury to yourself and the crowd watching the demonstration, you will be arrested.
Recent changes in Maryland Law regarding fireworks affecting some jurisdictions took effect in October 2005. These changes legalized the sale, possession and use of “ground-based sparkling devices” for some consumers for the first time in sixty years.
The new law allows for the sale and use of these non-aerial, non-exploding devices in many parts of Maryland, except Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and Baltimore City. NO CHANGE has occurred regarding the prohibition of fireworks in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and Baltimore City. ALL fireworks are illegal in these jurisdictions.
Possession or use of fireworks is unlawful and subject to a $500 fine upon conviction. Selling of fireworks is unlawful and subject to $1000 fine upon conviction. If anyone has knowledge of a crime associated with arson, fireworks and explosive devices they are asked to contact the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service at 240.777.2263.
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