Setting off Fourth of July fireworks? Here's how to celebrate safely in PA, Bucks County

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5 hours ago

Summer is in full swing and with the Fourth of July right around the corner, the night skies across Bucks County will soon be illuminated with fireworks big and small. But if you're planning on celebrating at home, its important to know the law in Pennsylvania.
The National Fire Protection Association reports that fireworks started 31,302 fires in 2022 and caused $109 million in property damage.
In 2023, fireworks were also involved in 9,700 emergency room injuries, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, with children younger than 15 accounting for nearly one third of fireworks injuries.
Here's what you need to know about buying, handling and enjoying fireworks this year:
Pennsylvanians can buy and use "Class C" or consumer-grade fireworks like firecrackers, Roman candles and bottle rockets that contain a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material, according to the Pennsylvania State Police.
Larger "display fireworks" are only to be used by professionals with a municipal permit.
Anyone over the age of 18 can purchase, possess and use consumer-grade fireworks in Pennsylvania. Consumer fireworks do not include ground and hand-held sparklers and other novelties which are not restricted.
Consumer fireworks in Pennsylvania are sold by retailers in stand-alone, permanent structures licensed by the Department of Agriculture. They can also be purchased online but they must be delivered to a licensed, permanent structure.
The Pennsylvania Office of the State Fire Commissioner has provided a list of tips to help keep you and your friends and family safe this summer:
Don't use fireworks while consuming alcohol, illegal drugs or medication that can cause impairment.
Keep a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
Keep fireworks away from young children. Sparklers are the No. 2 cause of fireworks-related visits to the ER, according to the Pennsylvania Office of State Fire Commissioner.
Soak spent and unused fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them away.
Wear eye protection and don't handle fireworks directly once lit.
Never light fireworks inside pr near other people or buildings.
Only light one firework at a time.
Don't handle or attempt to relight a failed firework. Wait 5-10 minutes and then place duds in a bucket of water.
Lacey Latch is the development reporter for the Bucks County Courier Times and The Intelligencer. She can be reached at [e-mail].
This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Are fireworks legal in PA? What to know before setting off fireworks