7 Firework Safety Tips
With it already being July 1st summer has definitely arrived in Northern Michigan. Just driving around Petoskey you can tell there is more traffic and most of our summer residents have finally arrived. July 4th is only a few days away and everyone is already stocking up on fireworks. We bought the kids sparklers for last weeks campfire and soon we will be hearing fireworks in our neck of the woods. Living only a few miles away from Crooked and Pickeral Lake we can hear the fireworks going off days before the 4th. Today I’m sharing some firework safety tips. Fireworks are absolutely beautiful to watch but can also be extremely dangerous. Keep reading and have a safe and happy 4th!
7 Firework Safety Tips
- Buy fireworks through trusted retailers. Those roadside stands might seem like a good deal at the time but make sure you buy from a licensed seller to get the most bang for your buck.
- Adults only. Children should not be allowed to light fireworks and should always stay back. Children should also refrain from handling the matches and/or lighters. Take a few minutes and explain that fireworks are fun to watch but can be dangerous if not used properly.
- Have your viewers sit at least 25-30 feet away. You want everyone to be safe and have a great time. 25-30 feet will ensure everyone can the see the show and stay out of harms way. Small children should sit by adults or on an adults lap to ensure their safety in case they want to get up and run.
- Keep water close by. Having water or a hose nearby if case anything catches on fire will help quickly diffuse the situation. It’s also helpful to have a bucket of water on hand to toss in used sparklers making sure they are completely out.
- Light fireworks in open spaces away from wooded areas and houses. You never know which way a firework will travel depending on whether or not it’s windy. Only ignite fireworks in clear open areas so when remnants fall they can be easily seen.
- Do not light fireworks while intoxicated. This is probably a no brainer, however because it’s one of the biggest holidays of the year try to refrain from drinking while lighting fireworks. Even better, nominate a sober firework lighter.
- Know the laws. Here in Emmet county, residents tend to light fireworks year round especially around the 4th of July holiday. However, in the City of Petoskey AND the in the entire state of Michigan the law states that residents can light fireworks on the day before, day of and day after the recognized holiday on private property.
Planning on watching the fireworks this year around Northern Michigan? I’ve put together a list of area firework display dates so you can plan on getting the best sit in the house!
- Bay Harbor: July 3rd at dusk. Tip: Don’t get stuck parking in Bay Harbor. Park up on the highway or ride your bikes in if you can. Getting out of Bay Harbor fireworks can take a while.
- Petoskey: July 4th, on the bay at dusk. Petoskey and Harbor Springs alternate their lightings so you get 2 shows at once! Tip: Do not park in Bayfront Park. Park in town and walk down as it will take you hours to leave after the fireworks have ended.
- Harbor Springs: July 4th, on the bay at dusk
- Boyne City: July 4th, Veterans Park at dusk
- Indian River: July 3rd, at Devoe Beach on Burt Lake at dusk.
- Mackinac City: July 4th at dusk
