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Fireworks:
Know the Laws, Know the Risks
By
Sheriff Ted Mink
 One of the best ways to get
a deputy sheriff to attend your 4th of July party is to set off illegal
fireworks there. Unfortunately, in addition to having an unexpected (and
awkwardly overdressed) guest, you may find yourself facing misdemeanor
charges and fines. Please consider the following as you plan your
holiday festivities.
It is Unlawful:
- for anyone
to possess or discharge any fireworks, other than permissible
fireworks, anywhere in the state
- for anyone
to sell fireworks unless that person is licensed as a retailer,
wholesaler, or exporter
- for anyone
to knowingly provide or sell any fireworks to anyone under 16
- for anyone
under 16 to purchase any fireworks, including permissible
fireworks
- for anyone
under 16 to possess and discharge permissible fireworks, unless that
person is under adult supervision
What
are Permissible Fireworks?
Cylindrical or cone fountains, wheels and ground spinners, illuminating
torches and colored fire, dipped sticks and sparklers, toy propellant or
toy smoke devices, trick noise makers and snake or glow worms are all
permissible.
What
are Illegal Fireworks?
Any devices or components that, when used or ignited, project or disburse
any metal, glass, or brittle plastic fragments. Cherry bombs, roman
candles, firecrackers, bottle rockets, shells and rockets, M-80s and
M-100s, and helicopters are all examples of illegal fireworks. A good rule
of thumb: anything that explodes or leaves the ground is most likely
illegal in Colorado.
What's
the Penalty?
Any person who violates the laws pertaining to the sale, possession, and
use of fireworks commits a class 3 misdemeanor and faces up to $750 in
fines, six months in prison, or both.
Check
for Fire Bans
Before you light a fuse, check to make sure your area isn't under a fire
ban. A fire ban can be enacted by your county sheriff and/or the US Forest
Service when there is high risk of wildfire. Even permissible fireworks are
prohibited when Jefferson County is under a fire ban. Violating the ban can
result in a fine.
If
you are in Jeffco's vulnerable foothills or mountain communities, please
consider the lives and property of your neighbors. In 2005, teens playing
with fireworks on North Table Mountain ignited a 200-acre wildfire that
threatened homes and horse barns, and required the services of over 100
firefighters. One errant bottle rocket or firecracker is all it
takes.
Tips
for Safe Fireworks Use
- Always read
and follow label instructions
- Have an
adult present when children are involved
- Use outdoors
only
- Always have
water and a fire extinguisher handy
- Never
experiment with or make your own fireworks
- Never give
fireworks to small children
- Never throw
or point fireworks at other people
- Always wear
eye protection
Disposing
of Fireworks
To dispose of unused fireworks, please call our non-emergency line at
303-277-0211. In most cases a deputy can pick up the fireworks for
disposal. Do not soak fireworks in water as it can make them
unstable.
Protect
Your Pets
According to our animal control officers, more dogs get lost around July 4
than any other time of the year. Keep your pets properly confined to avoid
escape due to fear of fireworks. Have your dog's license and identification
up to date so that in the event your pet does escape, Animal Control can facilitate
a quick return.
Better
Yet
Leave the fireworks to the professionals - attend a public fireworks
display. Check the local papers for information about public celebrations
in your area.
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