BATAVIA — When residents celebrate this weekend of July 4, they should handle twinkling appliances responsibly, city police and firefighters say.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 11,500 people were injured by fireworks in emergency rooms in 2021. month of special study period between June 18 and July 18 last year.
State law permits the sale and use of a specific category of consumer fireworks known as twinkling devices. Legal ground-based or portable twinkling devices produce a shower of colored sparks or a colored flame, audible crackling or whistling noise, and smoke. The devices do not launch into the air.
All other types of consumer fireworks, including fireworks, bottle rockets, Roman candles, spinners and aerial equipment, remain illegal statewide.
“We want to ensure that our residents enjoy their holiday in a safe and responsible way. It is important to take necessary fire safety precautions when using these devices,” said interim fire chief Daniel Herberger.
Police Chief Shawn Heubusch said: “We are seeing a steady increase in calls for help for fireworks-related complaints at this time of year. Residents are warned that if fireworks are purchased out of state or over the Internet and do not meet the definition of a sparkling device, it is not only illegal, but also dangerous. We want to make sure everyone has a safe and happy 4th of July holiday.”
Residents who have questions about what is allowed or want information about safety measures can call the Batavia fire brigade at (585) 345-6375.
Sales of sparkling appliances through certified fixed and specialty stores can only take place from June 1 to July 5 and December 26 to January 1. Sales of sparkling devices through certified temporary stands or tents can only take place from June 20 to July 5 and Dec. January 26 to January 1. Sellers, manufacturers, and distributors of flaming appliances must obtain a permit from the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control and abide by other rules and conditions. A list of registered suppliers of sparkling devices will appear here.
The Bureau of Fire Prevention and Control offers the following safety tips for twinkling appliances:
n Buy only sparkling and new appliances from New York State registered retailers.
n Always follow the directions on the packaging.
n Never allow young children to handle fireworks or twinkling appliances. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to use twinkling devices.
n Never use sparkling appliances indoors. All Sparkling devices are for outdoor use only.
n Always wear eye protection when using twinkling devices.
n Never ignite more than one twinkling appliance at a time.
n Never point a sparkling device tube at anyone or any part of your body.
n Keep sparkling and new appliances in a safe and secure location when not in use. Never operate sparkly devices under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
n Always keep an approved fire extinguisher nearby during a display.
n To prevent fire, moisten faulty and used devices with water before disposing of them.
n Keep sparkling appliances in a safe place away from young children.
n Keep unused sparkling devices dry and away from sources of ignition.
For more information about the sale and use of twinkling appliances in New York State, visit the Office of Fire Prevention and Control website.