Crime & Safety

Safety Tips for the Fourth of July Weekend

The State Fire Marshal gives tips on how to stay safe during your Fourth of July celebrations

Some of the best things about celebrating the are the most dangerous. So, to stay safe this holiday, the Ohio Fire Marshal released information on how to celebrate without incident.

The following information was provided by State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers:

Fireworks Safety

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  • The only types of fireworks that can be legally purchased and discharged in Ohio are trick and novelty devices.These include items that smoke, sparkle, snap and snake.
  • Sparkler wires, which can reach temperatures up to 1800 degrees, should immediately be placed in a bucket of water to avoid injury as they remain hot for a few minutes after burnout.
  • Carefully read and follow the label directions on the trick and novelty device packaging.


Other fireworks, like those sold at fireworks stores around Ohio, can be legally purchased in the state, but you must agree to take them out of Ohio to discharge.

"You must be at least 18 years of age to buy items such as firecrackers and bottle rockets at the stores you see along the roadways of Ohio," State Fire Marshal Larry Flowers said.  "But firing them off within state boundaries is prohibited.

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According to Flowers' report, there are stiff penalties for the illegal possession or discharge of fireworks.  It is a first-degree misdemeanor for non-licensed individuals to discharge fireworks in Ohio, to falsify an application when purchasing fireworks or to possess them for more than 48 hours without taking them out-of-state. First-time offenders are subject to up to a $1,000 fine and six months in prison.

Flowers' report goes on to explain the different classifications of fireworks that can be sold in Ohio.

1.3G Fireworks

  • Display or exhibitor fireworks include aerial shells that are fired from mortars. They can only be sold by a licensed manufacturer, wholesaler, or, under limited circumstances, out-of-state shippers. They can only be sold to a licensed manufacturer, wholesaler or exhibitor. 1.3G fireworks can only be discharged by a professional, licensed exhibitor. These fireworks can only be discharged by a licensed exhibitor in accordance with Ohio laws regarding exhibitions, including a properly issued exhibition permit issued by the local fire and police departments. 

1.4G Fireworks

  • Commonly referred to as consumer fireworks, these include firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles and fountains. A license is needed to sell these, but anyone over the age of 18 may purchase these items, but must sign a form certifying they will take the fireworks outside the state of Ohio within 48 hours.  It’s illegal to set them off in Ohio. 

Campfire Safety

  • Build where they will not spread; away from dry grass, leaves and never under overhanging trees.
  • Keep plenty of water and a shovel around to douse the fire when you’re done. Stir it and douse it again with water.
  • Never start a campfire without having the equipment and ability to extinguish it.

Grilling Safety

  • Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line.
  • Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
  • Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add to an already lit fire because the flame can flashback up into the container and explode.
  • Dispose of hot coals properly - douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
  • Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas - carbon monoxide could be produced.


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