As the JULY 4^th 2011 holiday approaches, the Connecticut State Police and the Department of Public Safety Office of the State Fire Marshal want to remind everyone, that fireworks are illegal in the State of Connecticut. The public has been overwhelmed with advertisement, signs, and sales pitches of so-called fireworks. It is important to understand that the only legal “Fireworks” items in Connecticut are sparklers.

July 4^th always raises questions about what is legal as far as fireworks and sparklers are concerned. Many questions are received by State Troopers, Fire Marshals, Resident Troopers, and local Police statewide regarding fireworks.  The questions reveal that many people are confused as to which “fireworks” can be used by citizens in our state.

To avoid confusion and caution our citizens Connecticut Law 29-357 is very specific. Only sparklers are legal in Connecticut.  Sparklers are NON-EXPLOSIVE, NON-AERIAL devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic mixture. Sparklers can only be legally used by person age 16 or older.  

Novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut. In addition to being illegal exploding devices are dangerous.  The illegal exploding devices have caused serious injury in the past.

Mr. Rob Ross Director of the Division Office of Fire Emergency, & Building Services reported that a number of house fires and grass fires have been attributed to fireworks.  “The danger that exists with these type of incidents, besides the damage to property, is the endangerment to human life. If a fire or explosion of any type causes damage or destruction, the intentional starting of that fire or intentionally causing that explosion could be designated as an ARSON which is a class C felony”.   

The safest way to enjoy this years Independence Day celebration is to attend a public display conducted at a state approved site by Connecticut licensed pyrotechnicians.

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Lt. J. Paul Vance