Fireworks Safety and Considerations
💥 4th of July is right around the corner! 💥
Fireworks are beautiful and a great way to celebrate the 4th of July, but they can also be dangerous and a nuisance to your neighbors and their pets. It's important to understand the Michigan laws, and common safety practices to have a safe and happy holiday if you choose to light fireworks at home. Please be considerate and aware, and keep the below in mind in the coming days:
Where can I light my fireworks?
Fireworks must be lit on your own private property, NOT public places such as streets and sidewalks, from school or church property, or from a friend’s property, unless given their express permission.
Violations of this law may result in a fine of up to $500.
When can I set my fireworks off?
The following days after 11 AM:
• Dec. 31 until Jan. 1 at 1 AM
• Saturday and Sunday before Memorial Day until 11:45 PM
• June 29 through July 4 until 11:45 PM each day
• July 5, if it falls on a Friday or Saturday, until 11:45 PM
• Also, July 5 ONLY if that day is a Friday or Saturday, until 11:45 PM
What about parties and fireworks?
State law makes it illegal to ignite fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Violations of this law may result in a $1,000 fine. In other words, don’t drink and sparkle.
My pet has anxiety when my neighbors set off fireworks. What can I do?
First, make sure your pet can’t run away. Fireworks can be frightening to pets because of the loud bangs, the flashing lights and unpleasant strong smell of spent explosives. With multiple bangs occurring from numerous displays, pets will rarely be able to pinpoint where the booming explosions are coming from. Other tips include comforting your dog during the barrage, taking them for a long walk before the festivities start, keeping your curtains closed, and playing music or white noise such as a fan.
How can I enjoy at-home fireworks while respecting neighbors who are sensitive to them?
Some people experience sensitivity to fireworks, including veterans and others with post-traumatic stress disorder. It’s important to respect your neighbors while enjoying summer festivities. If you choose to use fireworks, consider doing so at a planned, reasonable, and known time interval, and communicating that to those around you.
How can I keep my family safe around fireworks?
Adults should always supervise firework use, including sparklers and firecrackers. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, firecrackers were the biggest source of ER-treated fireworks injuries (1,600), followed by sparklers (900). Though small, they can hit 1500 to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit, causing burns to skin, clothing damage and grass fires. Over 50 percent of sparkler-related injuries occur in children under 14 nationwide. It’s always smart to have a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher handy in case things get out of control. Light fireworks a minimum 25 feet from your home. Never attempt to re-light a “dud” and always read the instructions. Once the show is over, place used fireworks in a bucket of water outside for 24 hours. Do not dispose of used fireworks in a trash can on your property as this poses a fire hazard.
If you have any questions related to fire safety, call the City of Monroe Fire Department staff at 734.243.7507.
As always - in case of an Emergency please dial 911. For Non-Emergency situations, please contact Central Dispatch 734-243-7507.
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