LANSING — Michigan State Police are encouraging residents to celebrate responsibly over the Fourth of July, warning that fireworks are no laughing matter when it comes to safety.
Lt. Ashley Miller, public information officer for the Northern Michigan district, says that fireworks can result in serious injuries, even in small amounts.
Small fireworks like sparklers can generate thousands of degrees of heat, potentially burning the fingers of anyone holding one.
Miller says that anyone using fireworks should have a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of a fire and be extra careful when drinking.
“Everyone wants to have a good time and maybe consume alcohol, but we just want everyone to use caution when you are consuming alcohol and using fireworks, because that normally does not mix,” she said. “So please, just make good decisions when you’re doing things like that.”
Miller also advises everyone to make sure their fireworks are for consumers, not professionals.
You are not allowed to discharge fireworks on public property, or someone else’s property without their permission.
State law allows local governments to establish firework ordinances outside of holidays, but includes exceptions for Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day.
Fireworks can be set off until 11:45pm on July 5, since the date falls on a Saturday.
After that, make sure to check your local policies before setting off any rockets.