MONROE - Monroe Police Chief Fred Kelley reminds people who plan to celebrate the Fourth of July with a bang that if an item explodes, shoots or leaves the ground it's illegal.
According to state statutes, anyone who possesses or uses illegal fireworks faces a fine of $168. Parents who allow their children to use illegal fireworks face fines of up to $1,000.
Anyone who sells illegal fireworks faces fines between $501 and $1,000, Kelley added.
The police department inspects fireworks stands in Monroe to make sure there are no illegal fireworks sold. Any unlawful fireworks are pointed out and are required to be removed.
Kelley said violations are found every year and warnings usually take care of the problem.
Smoke bombs, sparklers, cones and fountains are acceptable items for people to use, Kelley said.
"Parents should supervise to insure there are no unexpected explosions, and that hot wires from sparklers are not handled by improperly," he said.
Some safety tips for fireworks include:
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from a house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
• Never try to re-light fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction or fire.
- Brian Gray
According to state statutes, anyone who possesses or uses illegal fireworks faces a fine of $168. Parents who allow their children to use illegal fireworks face fines of up to $1,000.
Anyone who sells illegal fireworks faces fines between $501 and $1,000, Kelley added.
The police department inspects fireworks stands in Monroe to make sure there are no illegal fireworks sold. Any unlawful fireworks are pointed out and are required to be removed.
Kelley said violations are found every year and warnings usually take care of the problem.
Smoke bombs, sparklers, cones and fountains are acceptable items for people to use, Kelley said.
"Parents should supervise to insure there are no unexpected explosions, and that hot wires from sparklers are not handled by improperly," he said.
Some safety tips for fireworks include:
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from a house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
• Never try to re-light fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction or fire.
- Brian Gray