In just a couple of weeks the United States of America will be celebrating her 233^rd birthday.  As has been a custom for many years, many Americans will be celebrating this occasion with the use of fireworks.  Your Indiana State Police would like everyone to observe the following Indiana fireworks laws to make their holiday celebration not only legal, but safe.

• Only individuals 18 years of age or older can purchase fireworks.
• A person 18 years of age or older has to be present when anyone younger than 18 is using or possessing fireworks.
• Fireworks can only be used on the user's property, the property of someone who granted permission for fireworks to be discharged, or a place designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal for the discharge of consumer fireworks.
• Fireworks can only be discharged between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. any day except on Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and New Year's Eve where the times are 9:00 a.m. to midnight.

Anyone who violates the above law can be charged with a Class C Infraction.  Further, if a person recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally uses fireworks and the violation causes property damage they can be charged with a class A misdemeanor.  If the misuse results in bodily injury the penalty enhanced to a class D felony and if a death results the penalty is enhanced to a class C felony.

Anyone who plans to use fireworks at anytime during the year should check local government entities for any local ordinances which may further restrict or have additional requirements for the use of fireworks.

Children using fireworks should be monitored closely by an adult.  Each year many children suffer severe burns to the hands and arms as well as other injuries due to improper handling of sparklers, bottle rockets, and firecrackers.  Do your part in making this year's celebration a safe one.

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