Keystone Fireworks sells legal fireworks in the County Market parking lot. (Photo by Julie Ciaramella)
PUNXSUTAWNEY -- With the Fourth of July approaching, many people may be planning to celebrate the holiday with fireworks; however, their use is strictly limited by the public under state law.
"We've had some problems with fireworks being used near roadways or highways," said Punxsutawney Borough Police Officer Ryan Miller, who added that the department made one fireworks-related arrest this past week. "The arrests we make are from improper use of fireworks, based on violations."
Miller said there are state laws and a borough ordinance against the propulsion of missles on or across roads or highways. Fireworks are classified as missles because they are explosive devices.
State law permits public fireworks displays by certain organizations, but only after proper bonding, permit, registration and inspection requirements have been met in the municipality where the display is to be presented.
Violations face a fine of up to $100 and a jail term of 90 days. Under state law, anyone in possession of fireworks is required to have a license for them.
The only fireworks permitted for the public's use are sparklers and devices containing extremely small amounts of powder, no more than in a toy pistol cap.
Items such as standard firecrackers, cherry bombs, roman candles and M-80s are illegal under state law.
Specifically prohibited are any combustible or explosive composition prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation.
This includes, but is not limited to, firecrackers, skyrockets, roman candles, aerial fireworks, and any fireworks containing any explosive or flammable compound.
Keystone Fireworks has a tent in the County Market parking lot, and those fireworks are legal.
Steve Gault, who works for Keystone Fireworks, pointed to the company's policy, which states that the firm's fireworks are legal in Pennsylvania because none of the items contain any explosive compound, and no item leaves the ground or explodes.
Miller said most of the calls the department receives regarding fireworks are made by people concerned for their safety who may see a child or inexperienced adult improperly using fireworks.
Laws restricting the public's use of fireworks are important, Miller said, because "their primary purpose is for the safety, health and repose of people. The laws are in place to protect people and property."
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