They go by names like Rain Fire, and Christmas in July, and people itching for a big boom on the Fourth of July often buy them in massive quantities.
But in Sturtevant and Mount Pleasant, the only kind of fireworks that are legally allowed are things like sparklers and black snakes. Basically, if the firework flies into the air or explodes, it’s against the law, unless you have a professional pyrotechnic display permit. And invariably the issue of lighting off those fireworks in your backyard is always a sensitive issue with area police and fire departments.
The Sturtevant Police Department has already mentioned their ordinance on their Facebook page:
"Please remember the Village of Sturtevant has a strict no fireworks ordinance. Village Ordinance 9.21 states that no person shall sell, use, keep, discharge or explode any fireworks within the Village. Tickets for violating the ordinance are up to $303. Visit the Village's website for the complete ordinance, definitions, and list of exemptions."
Still, those sparklers are the source of the most fireworks-related injuries, and lighting off sparklers and handing them to your child is not recommended. But there is a proper way to enjoy sparklers safely.
Ken Michel, Jr., manager of Phantom Fireworks, offers up some safety tips and highlights several fountain-type fireworks including ones that stay on the ground and even work during the day.
"It's like anything, if people use it safely, they are going to be safe," he said. "But if they use them stupid and dangerously, that's when problems happen."
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