Maryland laws for fireworks: What's legal and illegal, plus safety tips
Independence Day is almost here, and that means fireworks and safety using them are timelier than ever.
As firework sellers prepare for the holiday rush, here are the latest Maryland regulations on what can be purchased, plus vital safety tips.
What kinds of fireworks can the public purchase in Maryland?
While state officials urge the public to merely view professional fireworks at designated sites, they also reminded them only gold-labeled sparklers, novelty items (i.e. party poppers, snap pops, snakes) and ground-basedsparkler devices are permitted for use in the state of Maryland.
That excludes Baltimore City, Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, where all fireworks are illegal. Also, ground-based sparklers are prohibited in Ocean City, Harford and Howard counties.
According to the Maryland State Police and Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office, 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
More on ballot referendums Wicomico County executive post's future headed to voters on November ballot. All to know.
Enforcement and citations in Maryland
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.
For more information, visit the official site of the State Fire Marshal.
Fireworks shows on Lower Shore: 4th of July fireworks 2024: Here's where to enjoy them in Ocean City, Salisbury and more
Staying safe if you launch your own fireworks
According to SafeWise, enjoying fireworks starts with adult supervision.
They added:
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Always supervise children, including when using sparklers.
Avoid purchasing fireworks that are packaged in brown paper. They may be professional-grade and dangerous for consumers.
Light fireworks one at a time and get away quickly. Don’t place any part of your body directly over a firework device.
Keep a bucket of water, garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby. Douse used fireworks with water before discarding them.
Choose the right location for fireworks. Keep them outside and away from buildings, vehicles, trees and power lines.
More on Eastern Shore Farming Gov. Wes Moore highlights innovation in agriculture with visit to Eastern Shore farm
This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Fireworks laws in Maryland: What's legal and illegal, plus safety tips
