As the 4th of July holiday approaches, it is important that Goshen residents be aware of fireworks regulations. A local city ordinance was adopted in 2007 at the urging of residents concerned about neighborhood safety and noise. Regulation is controlled by parameters imposed in state legislation.
Fireworks Safety:
Enjoy the local fireworks displays and leave the big ones to the professionals. Consumer fireworks are allowed by state legislation and local ordinance from 5:00 p.m. until two hours after sunset (or until approximately 11:20 p.m.) from June 29 through July 9, except on July 4 when they are allowed from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 midnight. If you decide to light your own, follow all local laws and keep a bucket of water or hose nearby. Remember, safety first! Fines for violations may be up to $500 per incident.
To report a violation of the fireworks ordinance, citizens are welcome to call the non-emergency dispatch phone number—533.4151. The caller must supply an exact address of where the violation is occurring in order for a police officer to respond effectively to the call.
Fireworks not limited to certain dates and times by local ordinance include dipped sticks or wire sparklers, cylindrical or cone fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, ground spinners, flitter sparklers, snakes or glow worms, smoke devices, and trick noisemakers (i.e., party poppers, booby traps, snappers, trick matches, cigarette loads).
Local regulations apply to “consumer fireworks” as defined in state statutes. Such fireworks include certain small ground or aerial devices designed to produce visible and/or audible effects by combustion. They are required to comply with the construction, chemical composition, and labeling regulations of the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission under 16CFR1507. Ground devices (firecrackers, salutes, and chasers) are limited to 50 milligrams of explosive composition. Aerial devices (sky rockets, missile type rockets, helicopters or spinners, roman candles, mines, and shells) are limited to 130 milligrams of explosive composition. Larger devices are not allowed under local ordinance and require state permitting.
Grill Safely:
Keep your grill clean and never leave it unattended. Make sure it’s placed well away from your home, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
Water Safety:
If you’re heading to the pool or beach, always supervise children and ensure everyone knows how to swim. Wear life jackets when boating.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re spending the day outside in the sun. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Protect Your Skin:
Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours. Wear hats and sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.
Be Mindful of Pets:
Fireworks can be scary for pets. Keep them indoors in a safe, quiet area to reduce stress and prevent them from running away.
First Aid:
Keep a first aid kit handy for minor injuries. Know the location of the nearest emergency services in case of a serious accident.
Let’s make this 4th of July memorable for all the right reasons. Have fun, stay safe, and enjoy the celebrations!