The Fourth of July is fast approaching, and the Trumbull Police would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone enjoyable and memorable holiday experiences all while being careful and remaining safe. During the celebration of this particular holiday, there are various traditions that add to many related dangers, especially involving fireworks. Just because aerial fireworks are illegal in the state of Connecticut that does not mean the danger no longer exists even if they are substituted for fountains and sparklers. Below are several keys to Connecticut’s Fireworks Laws and safety tips regarding the use of fireworks:

All fireworks are illegal in the State of Connecticut, with the exception of sparklers and fountains.

Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks, confetti poppers or streamers.

Consequently, it is also illegal to allow children under 16 years of age to play with or ignite fireworks.

Only persons 16 years of age and older may legally use sparklers and fountains in the State of Connecticut.

Although sparklers are legal in the State of Connecticut they are still extremely dangerous. Sparklers burn at temperatures of approximately 2000° F which is hot enough to quickly ignite clothing and even melt some metals.

Novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are illegal for private use in Connecticut.

Never use fireworks if you are impaired by drugs of alcohol.

Light fireworks one at a time, then quickly move to a safe distance. Do not light fireworks near any houses, structures, people, or other flammable material.

Never point a firework at someone, and do not light anything in your hand.

Never try to re-light of pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.

Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that do not go off, or in case a fire ignites.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted at a state approved site by Connecticut licensed pyro technicians.

For additional information on fireworks laws and fireworks safety you can visit the following sites:

The Connecticut State Police Topics in Public Safety - Fireworks Laws in the State of Connecticuthttp://www.ct.gov/despp/lib/despp/public_information_files/brochures/tipsfireworks.pdf

The United States Consumer Products Safety Commission Fireworks Information Centerhttp://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks/

Large aerial fireworks like mortars and cakes are illegal. Firecrackers, reloadable shells, M-Class devices, Roman Candles, bottle rockets, shot cakes, novelties, noise makers, poppers, snaps, sky lanterns and any firework that goes aerial or explodes are all illegal.

The Trumbull Police Department would like everyone to safely enjoy their gatherings and Fourth of July celebrations. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors. Always remember, if you observe dangerous or illegal activity, call the police right away. To contact the Trumbull Police Department please call 203-261-3665, or dial 911 for all emergencies. Have a Safe and Happy Fourth!