State Fire Marshal Stresses Fireworks Purchase Safety

Posted on June 10, 2017
Author Mary Perren, WKVI

Independence Day is less than a month away, and the Indiana State Fire Marshal is reminding Hoosiers about safe and legal ways to purchase fireworks.

Jim Greeson says consumer-grade fireworks should only be purchased from authorized sellers in the interest of safety.

Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s (IDHS) Fire and Building Safety Division, which is overseen by the State Fire Marshal, issues Indiana fireworks sales permits to retail establishments.

Greeson says it is acceptable to ask an employee to see the permit before completing a purchase if it is not on display.

If a fireworks retailer is not displaying a copy of its permit and cannot present it, citizens can call the IDHS Division of Fire and Building Safety at 317-232-2222 to verify a retailer’s permit or report a retailer without a permit.

Additionally, fireworks cannot be sold to our bought by anyone younger than 18.

Greeson also recommends buying glow sticks instead of sparklers for young children. He notes sparklers can burn at temperatures hot enough to melt glass. Consumers should also check packages and labels to make sure only 1.4G consumer fireworks are purchased.

Greeson says any other types are illegal for consumer sales or purchase in Indiana and may be more explosive and dangerous.

All fireworks should be stored in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.

Visit GetPrepared.in.gov for more safety tips.

State Fire Marshal Informs Hoosiers About Fireworks Laws

Posted on June 27, 2016
Author Tyler Maffitt, WKVI 

 As Independence Day draws near, the State Fire Marshal’s office is reminding Hoosiers about fireworks laws currently on the books.

In Indiana, the person setting off the fireworks may be held liable for damage to any property. In addition, fireworks are only allowed to be discharged on the owner’s property, or on the property of someone who has consented to it. Some communities may have specially designated areas for fireworks usage.


According to a press release, starting June 29th through July 9th, fireworks may be used between the hours of 9:00 a.m. until two hours after sunset. Otherwise, local ordinances are responsible for determining their times of use.

Damaging property with fireworks may result in a $5-thousand fine and up to one year in prison. The State Fire Marshal’s office also says that children discharging fireworks are expected to be in the presence of an adult.

Fireworks retailers are expected to be licensed and abide by the rule that no one under the age of 18 may purchase them.