APPLETON — With the 4th of July fast upon us, the Appleton Police Department has put together this guide to commonly asked firework questions and answers:
Question: Explain what non-permit-required fireworks are.
Answer: The following is a list of “non-permit required” fireworks — sparklers, stationary cones and fountains, snakes, smoke bombs, caps, noisemakers, and confetti poppers.
There is no age restriction on the sale, possession, or use of these devices.
These are legal in the City of Appleton; however, we would encourage common sense on the age of the children allowed to use these products.
Question: What does it mean when there is a permit required?
Answer: There are some fireworks considered “permit-required” fireworks. These fireworks include roman candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, and mortars.
Anything that explodes moves along the ground or leaves the ground, or spins fall under this heading. A permit is required for these fireworks. To obtain a permit, there is a formal process that needs to be followed. Due to state statutes and municipal codes, these permits are given on a limited basis and are difficult to get.
The Appleton Fire Department, with the signature approval of the Fire Chief and Mayor, has given permits for events such as the Fireworks at Memorial Park.Although there is an application process available for the purchase of restricted—“permit-required” fireworks, it has been a past history of the City of Appleton (Appleton City Hall) to only issue these permits to specific groups for specific special events.
Question: What is the permit actually for?
Answer: Once a permit is obtained, restricted fireworks may legally be purchased, possessed, and used. Permits may only be issued by a mayor, village president, town chair, or municipal official or employee. The city, village, or town representative authorizes specific fireworks to be shot off, at a specific location and on a specific date.
Permits issued or sold by the vendors themselves are not valid.
Question: What are the penalties for violating fireworks laws in the City of Appleton?
Answer: Shooting off illegal fireworks can cost up to $1,000 per violation under State law. (Note: Each firework may be a violation.) Under City ordinances, violations for selling or discharging illegal fireworks are $389.50. Fines for possession of illegal fireworks are $263.50.
Question: What is an example of illegal fireworks?
Answer: Cherry bombs, M-80s, firecrackers, Roman candles, cake-style, mortar-style, and bottle rockets are examples of illegal fireworks. Never buy these fireworks. These items are extremely dangerous.Legal fireworks conform to standards.
Labels must include the name of the item, the manufacturer or distributor name, easy-to-read cautionary labeling, and instructions for proper use. Always read and follow the instructions.
Question: Is transporting legal fireworks dangerous?
Answer: Although the transportation hazard of these is rated “minimum” by the Department of Transportation (Wisconsin Department of Transportation), all fireworks are classified as “explosives” for transportation purposes because of the chemical composition contained in the fireworks devices.
Question: How should I store legal fireworks?
Answer: Do not buy more fireworks than you plan to use. Keep them cool and dry. Keep them away from young children and ignition sources. Never smoke where fireworks are kept.
Question: What safety tips should I keep in mind?
Answer: • Buy only legal, non-permit required fireworks from reliable sellers.
• Use common sense. Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.
• Use only outdoors—keep away from buildings and vehicles.
• Have water handy (a bucket or water hose).
• Never light fireworks off in glass or combustible containers. Make sure to light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, or flammable materials.
• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
• Make sure spectators are a safe distance away (at least 50 feet).
• Keep your body, hands, and head away from the fireworks. Light them one at a time and step back quickly.
• The person lighting the fireworks should wear eye protection.
• Never make homemade fireworks. Never alter or combine fireworks.
• When finished, soak used fireworks in a bucket of water before putting them in the trashcan.
Choose Safety
Remember fireworks are not toys. Although they may be enjoyable to adults and children, fireworks can be dangerous. Parents: Remember there is no age requirement to purchase fireworks. Please utilize open communication regarding expectations of children not purchasing fireworks or using fireworks on their own.
The best thing to do to protect your loved ones and property is to not use fireworks at home. Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.
If you do decide to use fireworks, remember the key is responsibility, accountability, and common sense.
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