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Reminder from Sen. Twyla Ring: not all fireworks are legalThere is rampant confusion regarding the law passed recently by the Minnesota Legislature. The law allows for the sale, possession and use of certain "non-explosive and non-aerial" consumer fireworks. So if the fireworks you're thinking of using will hit the air with a bang, think again. Firecrackers, bottle rockets, missiles, roman candles, mortars and shells are still illegal! Such items as sparklers, cones and tubes that emit sparks, novelty items such as snakes and party poppers are now legal. It's important to know, however, that the law does not permit even these now legal fireworks to be used on public property such as parks, roads, alleys, schools or government property. The sparklers and so-called novelty items cannot be purchased by anyone under the age of 18. Retailers must check photo identification for verification of age. There is no restriction on time of year for sales. Fire chiefs and some city administrators in the state have voiced concerns regarding storage of the legal fireworks; i.e. in buildings without sprinklers. Cities may want to consider ordinances regarding the sale and storage of the legal fireworks. All fireworks should be used with great caution. The so-called harmless sparklers burn with intense sustained heat -- 1400 to 1800 degrees for up to seven minutes, according to the National Standard Testing Bureau. A propane torch burns at 1200 degrees; a match burns at 352 degrees for about five seconds. Product misuse could cause great harm. ©ECM Post Review |