Ohio State Fire Marshal sharing tips on firework safety for New Years celebrations

The New Year is approaching quickly, and many are looking forward to celebrating by setting off colorful fireworks when the ball drops. 

Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon is offering tips to celebrate safely and legally this holiday.

Between the hours of 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. New Years Eve and 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on New Years Day, fireworks are allowed to be discharged, unless prohibited by local laws or ordinances. 

The National Safety Council provides the following tips to stay safe:

• Never use fireworks while impaired by any drugs or alcohol.
• Anyone nearby to or using fireworks should wear protective eyewear. 
• Never hold fireworks in hands or light fireworks inside.
• Use fireworks away from people, homes, or flammable materials, and do not point or throw a firework at another person.
• Light one firework at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Never try to ignite devices in a container. 
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire or to extinguish a firework that doesn't successfully discharge.

"No one wants to spend New Year's Eve in an emergency room, which is why it's critical that fireworks are only handled by adults who are closely following the necessary safety precautions," said Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon.

"Trick" or novelty fireworks may also pose a danger if used incorrectly. These are classified as any device that smokes, sparkles, snaps or snakes.

Another set of tips for these devices specifically are as follows:

• Light only one sparkler at a time and hold it away from the body.
• Sparklers should only be used by individuals 12 years or older. 
• Once burned out, sparklers should be immediately placed in a bucket of water to avoid injury since the wire may remain hot for several minutes.
• Handle and discharge novelty devices under adult supervision. 
• Read the label for education on the hazards of all devices, and follow all instructions directly.