Community Corner

DA's Office: Fireworks are Illegal

The staccato pops of strings of firecrackers are already audible throughout many neighborhoods in Montgomery County, but district attorney Risa Ferman and county sheriff Eileen Behr want to remind you: they are against the law.

Firecrackers, along with "pinwheels, torpedoes, jumping jacks, skyrockets, bottle rockets, roman candles, aerial fireworks, blockbusters and cherry bombs," are illegal fireworks under the state's Health & Safety Act, the district attorney's office said in a press release issued Wednesday. 

"Anyone who uses, sells or transports these materials without the appropriate permit is subject to arrest on charges of illegal transportation of explosive devices, risking a catastrophe, arson, assault and other charges stemming from the use of fireworks," the statement said. 

The district attorney's office said by telephone on Thursday that police departments in the county would be "giving priority" to fireworks complaints this weekend. 

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"For the safety of the community, the District Attorney’s Office and Sheriff’s Department ask the general public to refrain from the use and sale of illegal fireworks this Fourth of July season and to instead enjoy fireworks at public displays that are managed by well-trained, licensed professionals," the statement said.

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