CAMP HILL, Pa. — While thousands of Pennsylvanians will watch fireworks shows across the region to celebrate Independence Day, others will be setting off their fireworks at home.
As people prepare to light up their fireworks on Thursday, municipalities across the region are urging people to follow the state’s fireworks laws.
“They’re there for a reason. You need to comply with those," said Brian Enterline, the City of Harrisburg Fire Chief. “Those residents who want to be peaceful at night in their rowhome or tight-knit community don’t want to sleep on pins and needles."
Chief Enterline said he’s responded to several fires as a result of misusing fireworks over the years. He added that these incidents cause too many people to be injured or killed.
“It clogs our ER’s with patients and it takes our first responders away from other emergent issues to take care of blatant disregard for the law," said Chief Enterline.
Police Chief Stephen Margeson with the Camp Hill Police said his department also receives many complaints about people mishandling fireworks each year.
“There are just as many neighbors who don’t appreciate it, they don’t like it, and see it not only as a nuisance but as a safety hazard," said Chief Margeson.
Under Pennsylvania's fireworks laws, people who are at least 18 years old may purchase and set off consumer-grade fireworks but must follow certain restrictions. The list includes:
- They cannot be set off on public or private property without permission of the property owner.
- They cannot be set off inside a car or building, and cannot be set off towards a car or building.
- They cannot be set off within 150 feet of a building, regardless of whether or not a person is inside.
- They cannot be set off while someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Authorities also advise people to check the PA Fire Commissioner's website for additional safety tips before setting off fireworks.