What You Need to Know About Fireworks

With the Fourth of July quickly approaching, Montgomery County Fire Chief Scott Goldstein is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its ‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

  

In an effort to stress the seriousness posed by the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks, Fire Officials across the region launched a comprehensive effort several years ago to inform and educate the public about illegal fireworks. “The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is at one of the many public displays in the area,” said Fire Chief Goldstein. Here’s what you should know:

The Law: 

It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?

In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?

No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland.  Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations.

Jason Pierre-Paul and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission teamed up to file a PSA on fireworks safety. Pierre-Paul suffered severe damage when a firework accidentally exploded in his hand in 2015. Think about what Pierre-Paul said: "I saw 12 people in the hospital and my hand was the best one. If there were that may fireworks-related injuries in one hospital last July, how many were there across the country?"

Please - leave the fireworks to the professionals.  

Leave The Show To The Pros!

ALL Fireworks Are Illegal In Montgomery County

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire and Rescue wants to remind residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County. 

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:

It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?

In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?

No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland.  Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

MCFRS and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations.

How Hot Does a Sparkler Burn?

Think sparklers are not dangerous?  Well, think again!  Below is a great chart, from our friends in safety the NFPA, that highlights just how hot they can burn.  Sparklers account for approximately 16% of all fireworks injuries each year.

Don't Become a Fireworks Casualty This July 4th

Below is a quick and friendly reminder from our partners in safety at the National Fire Protection Association. Remember, all fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County.

Please do not become a statistic this year! Leave fireworks to the professionals!

What You Need to Know About Fireworks

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire Chief Scott Goldstein is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its ‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

  

In an effort to stress the seriousness posed by the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks, Fire Officials across the region launched a comprehensive effort several years ago to inform and educate the public about illegal fireworks. “The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is at one of the many public displays in the area,” said Fire Chief Goldstein.

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:

It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?

In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?

No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland.  Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations.

How Hot Does a Sparkler Burn?

Think sparklers are not dangerous?  Well, think again!  Below is a great chart, from our friends in safety the NFPA, that highlights just how hot they can burn.  Sparklers account for approximately 16% of all fireworks injuries each year.

Don't Become a Fireworks Casualty This July 4th

Below is a quick and friendly reminder from our partners in safety at the National Fire Protection Association. Remember, all fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County.

Please do not become a statistic this year! Leave fireworks to the professionals!

Fireworks: What You Need to Know and a List of Public Displays

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire Chief Steve Lohr is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its

‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

As you prepare to celebrate Independence Day with family picnics, outings to the beach and neighborhood barbecues, take steps to prevent these festivities from turning into tragedies. Each Fourth of July, hundreds of children are permanently disfigured due to burns by fireworks. Here's what you should know:

• Each year, fireworks in the United States cause approximately twelve deaths, 2000 serious eye injuries, and 5000 other injuries (including amputated fingers). 

• Although many people mistakenly believe that sparklers are safe, sparklers burn at 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit (nearly hot enough to melt gold)! 

• In Montgomery County, all fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. 

• Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes, and party poppers are the only exception to this law. 

Maryland's Fireworks Laws:

• Fireworks include any firecracker, skyrocket, or Roman candle. Toy caps are only permitted if the explosive content is under .25 grains and they are designed so the hand cannot come in contact with the cap when in use. 

• In Maryland, private use and possession of fireworks, including sparklers, is illegal and carries a $500 fine. 

• It is against the law to sell fireworks in Maryland, and carries a $1,000 fine. 

• Public fireworks displays require proper permits and insurance. 

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Below is a list of public displays that we are aware of:

Germantown Glory at the Maryland SoccerPlex in the South Germantown Recreational Park, 18041 Central Park Circle, Germantown

Mid-County Sparkles at Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Road, Kensington. Both fireworks displays will begin at approximately 9:15 p.m.

Rockville's Independence Day Celebration is at Montgomery College - Rockville Campus located at 51 Mannakee Street.

Takoma Park 125^th Celebration - Takoma Park Middle School 7611 Piney Branch Rd

City of Gaithersburg Celebration - Montgomery County Fairgrounds located at 16 Chestnut Street in Gaithersburg. 

Town of Poolesville - Poolesville Polo Grounds, 14660 Hughes Rd., Poolesville, Maryland.

What You Need to Know About Fireworks

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire Chief Steve Lohr is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its ‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

  

In an effort to stress the seriousness posed by the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks, Fire Officials across the region launched a comprehensive effort several years ago to inform and educate the public about illegal fireworks. “The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is at one of the many public displays in the area,” said Fire Chief Lohr.

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:

It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?

In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

 No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

 No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?

 No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland.  Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations.

What You Need to Know About Fireworks And List of Public Celebrations

The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire Chief Steve Lohr is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its ‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

  

In an effort to stress the seriousness posed by the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks, Fire Officials across the region launched a comprehensive effort several years ago to inform and educate the public about illegal fireworks. “The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is at one of the many public displays in the area,” said Fire Chief Lohr.

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:

It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?

In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

 No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

 No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?

 No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland.  Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.

Where do I report violations involving fireworks?

Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Non-emergency 911 calls can delay getting assistance to people with actual emergencies.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?

The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4th.  Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations. Area July 4^th displays include: 

Gaithersburg,

Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, Gaithersburg, Maryland.(301) 258-6350. Gates open at 5 p.m. Walk-in at Chestnut or Dalamar Streets; the Perry Parkway entrance will be closed. Entertainment begins at 5:30 p.m. Fireworks launch at dusk.

Rockville,

Montgomery College, Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, Maryland.  Additional parking will be available at Rockville Town Center. Live entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Boyds/Germantown,

Germantown Soccerplex, 18041 Central Park Circle, Boyds, Maryland.(240) 777-6820. Family concert at 7 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

Poolesville

Poolesville Polo Grounds, 14660 Hughes Rd., Poolesville, Maryland. Live music begins at 6 p.m., Fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $5 per vehicle. (301) 972-8888.

Kensington/Wheaton,

Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Road, Kensington, Maryland. Entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks show will begin approximately at 9:15 p.m.  Since there will be no on-site parking at the school or at adjacent properties, except for handicapped parking, free shuttle bus service will pick up passengers beginning at 6:15 p.m. at Westfield Wheaton and the Wheaton Metro Station.

Takoma Park,

Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, Maryland. (301) 270-6876. Parade at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues.  Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.  Lastly, while fireworks displays can be exciting they can be extremely stressful and frightening for your pets. Leave your pets at home, be sure they are wearing proper identification so they can be reunited with owners should they get lost or run away and never leave pets in a locked car since vehicles can heat up to dangerous levels in just minutes

What You Need to Know About Fireworks

IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 26, 2012

               What You Need to Know About Fireworks

                Fireworks are not only dangerous, but ILLEGAL                                                                 

Rockville - - - The Fourth of July is right around the corner and Montgomery County Fire Chief Richard Bowers is reminding residents that ALL fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County and that the County will be continuing its ‘zero tolerance’ policy regarding illegal fireworks.

In an effort to stress the seriousness posed by the use of dangerous and illegal fireworks, Fire Officials across the region launched a comprehensive effort several years ago to inform and educate the public about illegal fireworks. “The law in Montgomery County is clear and the safest, and smartest, way to enjoy fireworks is to enjoy one of the many public displays in the area,” said Fire Chief Bowers.

Here’s what you should know:

The Law:
It is illegal for any person to manufacture, possess, store, offer for sale, sell, discharge, use, burn or explode any fireworks in Montgomery County, Maryland, except that an authorized display may be conducted by a licensed pyrotechnic professional with a permit. Penalties for violations of the law include a fine up to $1,000 and/or six months in jail. All fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County and the City of Baltimore. Montgomery County Fire Safety Code: Section 22-70: Fireworks.

What fireworks are legal?
In Montgomery County, ALL fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers. Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?
No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?
No. You can not have a private display; however, you can apply to have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by a public carrier?
No. It doesn’t matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. Fireworks are still illegal in Montgomery County.


Where do I report violations involving fireworks?
Residents should call 301-279-8000. Do NOT call 911 unless you have a life-threatening emergency and need immediate help. Unnecessary 911 calls can prevent people with real emergencies from reaching 911 and getting help.

Where can I go in Montgomery County to see the fireworks?
The Fire Chief and safety experts agree that the best way to celebrate is to enjoy one of the many free, public fireworks displays in the area on July 4^th. Public fireworks displays, conducted by trained professionals, are the smartest and safest way to view fireworks because they are established under controlled settings and safety regulations and monitored by public safety organizations. Area July 4^th displays include:

 • Gaithersburg, Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, Gaithersburg, Maryland. (301) 258-6350. Gates open at 5 p.m. Walk-in at Chestnut or Dalamar Streets; the Perry Parkway entrance will be closed. Entertainment at 7 p.m. Fireworks at dusk.

• Rockville, Montgomery College, Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, Maryland. Additional parking will be available at Rockville Town Center. Live entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

• Boyds/Germantown, Germantown Soccerplex, 18041 Central Park Circle, Boyds, Maryland. (240) 777-6820. Family concert at 7 p.m. and fireworks begin at 9:15 p.m.

• Poolesville, Poolesville Polo Grounds, 14660 Hughes Rd., Poolesville, Maryland. Live music begins at 6 p.m., Fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $5 per vehicle. (301) 972-8888.

• Kensington/Wheaton, Albert Einstein High School, 11135 Newport Road, Kensington, Maryland. Entertainment begins at 7:30 p.m. and fireworks show will begin approximately
at 9:15 p.m. Since there will be no on-site parking at the school or at adjacent properties, except for handicapped parking, free shuttle bus service will pick up passengers beginning at 6:15 p.m. at Westfield Wheaton and the Wheaton Metro Station.

• Takoma Park, Takoma Park Middle School, 7611 Piney Branch Road, Takoma Park, Maryland. (301) 270-6876. Parade at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.

Lastly, while fireworks displays can be exciting they can be extremely stressful and frightening for your pets. Leave your pets at home, be sure they are wearing proper identification so they can be reunited with owners should they get lost or run away and never leave pets in a locked car since vehicles can heat up to dangerous levels in just minutes.    

The below video is from a region wide press conference held last week here in Montgomery County.  It shows you what can occur when you are attempting to use illegal fire works.                                                                  

Questions About Fireworks

Questions you may have about fireworks.

Q: What fireworks are legal?

A: In Montgomery County, all fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers.

Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes, and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

Q: Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

A: No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

Q: Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

A: No. You can’t have a private display; however, you can have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

Q: Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by public carrier?

A: No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. Fireworks are still illegal.

Leave Fireworks To The Professionals

Protect The Ones You Love

Video From Fireworks Press Event

Below is a great video from a fireworks Press Conference MCFRS hosted.  Fire Officials from across the region came together to highlight the dangers of fireworks.  Bomb squads from the ATF, MCFRS, and PG Fire and Rescue helped to demonstrate the potential destructive impact of explosive fireworks, as well as sparklers, can have.  This video is from the Gaithersburg Patch.

Remember, all fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County!

Have A SAFE Holiday Weekend!

As we get ready to head into this fantastic holiday weekend, I wanted to take a moment to remind everyone that fire and serious injury never take a holiday off! I know, call me party pooper but my job is to prevent the 9-1-1 call! : )

Everyone should know by now that fireworks are illegal in the County. Please leave fireworks to the professionals! If you decide to light off fire works in the County and we find you, misdemeanor charges and fines not to exceed $500 are in store. You Light It, We’ll Write It!

The County will again this year host two Independence Day fireworks displays on Sunday, July 4: County Fireworks Displays in Germantown and Kensington

If you are headed out anywhere around the Potomac River please be careful and do not even think about entering the water. Swimming, or wading, in the Potomac River is both deadly and illegal and citations will be issued for violations. Our Fire and Rescue Crews will be at several locations along the river this Saturday handing out bi-lingual tip sheets (on right) to visitors warning of the dangers and ramifications of entering the water.

Here’s hoping you and your loved ones enjoy a Happy and SAFE Holiday weekend!

Stay Safe,

Bill Delaney

Program Manager – Community Safety Education

In Montgomery County All Fireworks Are Illegal

Fireworks: Questions you may have about fireworks.

* What fireworks are legal?

In Montgomery County, all fireworks are illegal to possess or discharge including gold label sparklers.

Snap-and-pop noise makers, snakes, and party poppers are the only exception to this law.

* Can I receive fireworks at my home through the mail?

No. Use of the mail for the transportation of fireworks for use in the State of Maryland is illegal.

* Can I have a private fireworks display at my residence with proper permits?

No. You can’t have a private display; however, you can have a public display with proper permits and insurance.

*Can I receive fireworks at my residence delivered by public carrier?

No. It doesn't matter where the fireworks are purchased or how they are brought into Maryland. Fireworks are still illegal.

Leave Fireworks To The Professionals!

Illegal Fireworks Display Injures 20 Month Old Child

First Reported Firework Related Injury In 5 Years

On July 4, 2009 at approximately 11 PM, a 20 month old female was brought to Shady Grove Adventist Hospital (SGAH) by her parents with burns on her back. SGAH staff contacted the on-duty Fire Investigators who responded to the hospital.

Upon questioning the child’s parents, it was learned that she was burned by fireworks that had inadvertently flown into her stroller during an illegal display at a private residence. Fire Investigators were able to locate and interview the resident where the illegal fireworks display had occurred. The resident confirmed that a fireworks package, that shot multiple flame balls, tipped over and shot burning material into the bystanders and injured the child. The child received second degree burns to 4%, and third degree burns to 1% of her body. She was treated at SGAH and was released shortly thereafter.

This is the first reported firework related injury in the county in roughly five years. Charges are pending against the defendant.

Please remember that ALL Fireworks are illegal in Montgomery County throughout the year.