“People need to remember that these are dangerous devices. Specifically, the commercial-grade fireworks could cause injury and even death,” he said.
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Riegel said they don’t know the reason for the uptick, and that there has been an increase in higher quality, commercial-grade fireworks going later into the evening this year, but no increase in injuries.
Fireworks are legal to buy, but illegal for the general public to use in Ohio, aside from sparklers and other novelty fireworks that don’t leave the ground.
A proposed state law would change that, but currently, the penalty for using consumer fireworks — such as bottle rockets and Roman candles — in Ohio is a first-degree misdemeanor.
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Possession of commercial-grade fireworks is also a first-degree misdemeanor, which can result in up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail. Exhibition of commercial-grade fireworks without a license is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 18 months in jail and up to a $5,000 fine.
“One of the issues we’re facing this year is the perception in the public that fireworks are legal. Fireworks are not legal,” Riegel said. “Based on that and based on the complaints from the neighbors, we will be conducting enforcement actions when necessary.”
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