The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal has released a pre-holiday reminder on the danger of fireworks.
Although firecrackers and aerial displays are illegal, residents have been hearing fireworks being fired off before the Fourth of July holiday.
Public fireworks displays that draw crowds have been largely canceled. That could lead to even more illegal fireworks.
In the year of coronavirus, illegal fireworks have been far more widespread around the nation this month, irritating the family dog and keeping some people up at night, an Associated Press story noted. Explanations vary but include a wave of social justice protests to boredom arising from stay at home orders.
Each year, thousands of people were treated in the nation’s hospitals for injuries related to the use of fireworks. Most injuries occur around the July Fourth holiday.
Firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, and all types of aerial consumer fireworks are always illegal and not permitted to be sold or used in Delaware.
Sparklers and ground-based novelty items may be purchased by someone that is 18+ years old and sold in Delaware from June 4 to July 4. Until fairly recently, sparkler sales were banned in Delaware.
However, nearby states offer a variety of fireworks.
Sparklers and ground-based novelty items may only be used in Delaware on July 4th
Penalties for the misuse of fireworks or possession of illegal fireworks are misdemeanors subject to a fine. Damage or injuries caused by using fireworks can result in felony charges.
Municipalities can ban all fireworks.
