The Indiana State Police would like all Hoosiers to have a safe Independence Day holiday. Due to many Hoosiers celebrating our nation’s independence with the use of fireworks, the Indiana State Police would like to inform citizens of the Indiana fireworks law which is in place for the safety of everyone.

• Only individuals over the age of 18 can purchase fireworks.
• A person 18 years of age or older has to be present when anyone younger than 18 is using or possessing fireworks.
• Fireworks can only be used on the user’s property, the property of someone who granted permission for fireworks to be discharged, or a place designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal for the discharge of consumer fireworks.
• Fireworks can only be discharged between the hours of 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. any day except on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day and New Years Eve when the times are 9 a.m. to midnight. It is important to check with local officials as local ordinances may restrict the use of fireworks.

A person who violates this law can be charged with a Class C infraction.

If a person recklessly, knowingly or intentionally uses fireworks and the violation causes property damage, they can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor. If there is bodily injury it is enhanced to a Class D felony, and if there is death a Class C felony.

Adults are encouraged to constantly monitor children who use fireworks. In the past, children have suffered burns on their arms and hands because of improperly using bottle rockets, firecrackers and sparklers. All fireworks have the potential to be dangerous when used improperly. It is everyone’s responsibility to make sure we have a safe holiday.

For more information visit: http://www.in.gov/isp/2885.htm or the Indiana Department of Homeland Security at: http://www.in.gov/dhs/2810.htm