Fireworks, while fun, can be very dangerous. Using common sense is imperative while lighting the Roman candle. Residents are reminded the only legal firework products allowed in the State of Florida should bear the wording "emits a fountain or shower of sparks." Aerial devices are prohibited. The State Fire Marshal's approved sparkler list can be found at www.myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm/bfp/Documents/ApprovedSparklerList.pdf. Using illegal fireworks is a first-degree misdemeanor, and is a crime punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail. If you spot a brush or wildfire or if someone is injured, immediately call 9-1-1.
What’s prohibited?
• Fireworks- Under Florida law, only sparklers approved by the Division of State Fire Marshal, are legal for consumer usage anytime of the year. Sparklers should bear the wording "emits a fountain or shower of sparks." Aerial devices are prohibited. A good rule of thumb is if it flies or explodes, it is not legal in Florida. Using illegal fireworks is a first-degree misdemeanor, and is a crime punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail.
What’s allowed?
• Over 2,000 state approved sparklers, trick noise makers, and fountains.
• Permitted public fireworks displays.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks with your family is to participate in one of the public fireworks displays offered throughout Santa Rosa County. Local displays include:
• Southern Motorsports, Saturday, June 28. Display will be during a pre-determined intermission between races at approximately 9 p.m. This show is for patrons of Southern Raceway and is not open to the general public.
• Santa Rosa County TDC Display, Friday, July 4, the fireworks will originate from the Black Skimmer Pavilion parking lot in the county park on Navarre Beach. The fireworks will begin at dark and will be visible from many sound and gulf side locations.
• Town of Jay, Friday, July 4, at the Bray-Hendrix Park, 5213 Booker Lane at dark.
• Riverfest, Friday, July 4, Downtown Milton at dark over the Blackwater River.
If you decide to celebrate the Fourth of July at home with sparklers, remember these helpful tips to minimize your chance of accident or injury:
• Only purchase state approved sparklers from licensed vendors.
• Observe local laws and use common sense.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
• Only light sparklers on a flat smooth surface away from combustible materials. Do not light them on grass.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or water hose on-hand for emergencies.
• Be sure people and pets are out of range prior to igniting the sparkler.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over the sparkler when lighting the fuse.
• Never allow children to play or use any sparkler or novelty device without supervision.
• Do not use any unwrapped item that may have been tampered with.
• Light only one item at a time and never attempt to re-light a “dud.”
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Discard of all products safely. It is recommended to submerge used and “dud” sparklers in water prior to placing in household trash receptacles.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Fireworks Safety