STATE FIRE MARSHAL SUGGESTS ATTENDING PUBLIC FIREWORKS DISPLAYS
STATE OF MARYLAND - With the arrival of summer and the Fourth of July holiday quickly approaching, Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray suggests that Marylanders attend public fireworks displays. "I would highly suggest the safest way enjoy fireworks is to attend one of the many public fireworks displays throughout the state," stated Mowbray.
To help Marylanders enjoy a safer summer season, the State Fire Marshal offers several ways to enjoy fireworks while avoiding injury:
Examples of prohibited fireworks include:
For those individuals who insist on the use of consumer fireworks
Any law enforcement officer may issue a criminal citation and confiscate fireworks for violations. Confiscated fireworks must be turned over to the State Fire Marshal's Office for disposal. The penalty, according to state code, for intending to ignite or igniting prohibited fireworks is $250.
"Fireworks have been a long tradition of the 4th of July holiday celebrations. Please make safety your number one priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday season." stated Acting State Fire Marshal Mowbray. "By acting responsibly, we can help eliminate fireworks injuries in Maryland."
To help Marylanders enjoy a safer summer season, the State Fire Marshal offers several ways to enjoy fireworks while avoiding injury:
- Consider attending one of the numerous public fireworks displays in Maryland every year. Leave fireworks to the professionals.
- Visit: Office of the State Fire Marshal 2024 Firework Permits List for the most updated list of all legal and permitted displays throughout the state.
Examples of prohibited fireworks include:
- Firecrackers, Cherry Bombs, Black Cats, M-80's, Crackling Balls and Smoke Bombs
- Roman Candles and Bottle Rockets (whistling and/or with report)
- Sky Rockets, Helicopter-type Rockets, Spinning Wheels, moving tanks or other vehicles
- Any firework that is shot from a mortar tube
For those individuals who insist on the use of consumer fireworks
- Purchase the fireworks in the location where you intend to discharge them. Check with the local municipality to determine what fireworks are legal for use in that area.
- Fireworks are PROHIBITED in Baltimore City, Montgomery, Prince George's, Harford, and Howard counties, as well as Ocean City.
- Read and follow label warnings and instructions.
- Do not allow small children to use fireworks.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while using fireworks.
- Have a bucket of water or hose available.
- Fully extinguish remains of fireworks in water before disposal.
Any law enforcement officer may issue a criminal citation and confiscate fireworks for violations. Confiscated fireworks must be turned over to the State Fire Marshal's Office for disposal. The penalty, according to state code, for intending to ignite or igniting prohibited fireworks is $250.
"Fireworks have been a long tradition of the 4th of July holiday celebrations. Please make safety your number one priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday season." stated Acting State Fire Marshal Mowbray. "By acting responsibly, we can help eliminate fireworks injuries in Maryland."
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