The Fourth of July is this weekend, so prepare for flashbangs, bottle rockets and fireworks galore.
Many Independence Day events are back on and you can count on people across the Tristate setting off fireworks in their own backyards.
With that in mind, here's what you need to know about the legality of your pyrotechnics before your backyard bash.
Ohio
Still no dice for those in Ohio looking to shoot off bigger fireworks.
By next Fourth of July, Ohioans could finally shoot off fireworks – legally. Ohio is one of the last states to allow residents to set off fireworks despite multiple attempts to legalize the practice over the years.
Current state law allows Ohioans to purchase fireworks in the state but not shoot them off here.
The only firework products permitted in Ohio for use are designated "trick and novelty," such as smokes, sparklers, snaps, and snakes. Those items can be purchased by those over the age of 18.
Ohioans may buy consumer fireworks or other products like firecrackers and bottle rockets from a licensed wholesaler or manufacturer but fireworks purchased in Ohio must be taken out of the state within 48 hours of the purchase.
What's at stake? Ohio officials say most first-time violations are first-degree misdemeanors, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail. You can also face legal repercussions if you don't transport fireworks out of state within the specified time period.
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Kentucky
Unlike Ohio, Kentuckians can purchase and use most fireworks, including larger ones.
Consumers over the age of 18 can purchase and light fireworks, as long as the fireworks adhere to federal regulations.
This includes aerial and ground devices including rockets and bottle rockets, helicopters and aerial spinners, roman candles, sparklers, ground fountains and noisemakers and pretty much everything in between.
Indiana
Like Kentucky, consumers over the age of 18 can purchase most fireworks, as long as they adhere to federal regulations.
However, Indiana also has regulations for times fireworks can be lit.
Fireworks may be used only between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on days other than holidays. On holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th and New Year’s Eve, fireworks may be used from 9 a.m. until midnight.
Fireworks are also restricted to use on the property of the one who bought them, the property of someone who has approved their use or a location designated specifically for the use of fireworks.
Safety tips
If you are lighting pyrotechnics in your yard this weekend, here are safety tips for lighting fireworks from the Kentucky State Fire Marshall:
- Use fireworks outdoors only.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a working water hose nearby.
- Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
- Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated adult operator."
- Do not use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives -- they can kill you!
- Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Read and follow all instructions on the label.
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