Peoria: Be safe using fireworks

Many people enjoy celebrating Independence Day with fireworks. Peoria recommends the safe and responsible use of fireworks, which includes following all state and local laws, as well as safe handling and disposal of consumer firework devices.

Fireworks are allowed in Arizona from May 20 to July 6. Consumer fireworks may be used on private property, such as a private backyard or driveway.

Fireworks cannot be used on city property, including parks, city streets and city sidewalks. They also cannot be used on state land or on school property, unless a permit has been issued. Aerial fireworks are prohibited in Arizona including: sky rockets, bottle rockets, Roman candles, reloadable shell devices, aerials, and single tube type devices, unless the device is part of a permitted public fireworks display.

The penalty for violating any prohibited fireworks is a maximum fine of $750. For more information: peoriaaz.gov/fireworks.

Peoria Fire shares the following tips to stay safe around fireworks:

1. Observe all laws concerning use of fireworks.
2. Young children should not be allowed to play with fireworks under any circumstances.
3. Older children should only be permitted to handle fireworks under close adult supervision.
4. Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from houses, dry leaves or grass, and flammable materials.
5. Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and to douse fireworks that do not properly ignite.
6. Keep a hose with a shut-off nozzle nearby. The water should be on and the hose should be ready to instantly douse any wayward fires.
7. Do not attempt to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
8. Be sure people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
9. Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting. Be sure to wear protective eyewear. An errant ember could cause permanent eye damage or, in extreme cases, blindness.
10. Don't experiment with homemade fireworks.
11. Sparklers should only be handled by kids older than 12.
12. Make sure that people with lit sparklers stay at least 10 feet apart.
13. Put all used sparklers in the water bucket.