With fireworks season closing in on us, retailers and the public need to be aware of a new State law governing the use and sale of fireworks.
The law signed in March of last year . The law will help fund public safety programs in Indiana, such as training for firefighters. A collection of 5% safety fee on the sale of all fireworks began June 1, 2006. The funds collected will also go toward establishing a State Disaster Relief Program. The law also included requirements for where and when the public can set off fireworks, as well as requirements for structures where they are sold.
Even though the new law elimanated the document the purchasers had to sign stating they would take the fireworks out of state, the public still needs to be aware of restrictions that are in place regarding fireworks use, as well as the penalties for violators.
Some provisions are:
Fireworks may be used only on the users property, or on the property of someone who has consented to the use, or a special discharge location. (A special discharge location is a spot designated by the State Fire Marshal.)
Fireworks can only be purchased by adults 18 years or older. Children under 18 can only use fireworks when an adult is present.
Fireworks can only be discharged between 9am and 11pm, except on Memoriial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day and New Years Eve, then the hours are extended to midnight.
Penalties for violating fireworks law can range from a Class A misdemeanor up to a Class C felony in the case of reckless or intentional use that results in a person's death.
New law requirements for firework retailers:
Locations where fireworks are sold must be registered with the Indiana Dept. of Homeland Security Division of the Fire and Building Safety (IDHS.) The locations must comply for various types of structires.
Each sales location will be inspected by thr IDHS and/or the Code Enforcement Division of the Fire Dept.
Need more information contact Your local Fire Dept. or IDHS
FIGHTING FIRES STATION & APPARATUS MALTESE CROSS FIREWORKS LAW
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