Safety First this Fourth: Ohio Department of Commerce Highlights Tips for a Safe Independence Day

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As families and friends gather to celebrate America's 250^th birthday, the Ohio Department of Commerce Divisions of State Fire Marshal (SFM), Liquor Control and Cannabis Control are teaming up to remind Ohioans to put safety first this Fourth of July. With proper preparation and caution, you can help ensure the safety of friends, loved ones and yourself at upcoming cookouts, gatherings and festivities, especially those that involve fireworks.

Fireworks Safety

Individuals who plan to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks are reminded to always follow local laws. Since 2022, the Ohio Fire Code has permitted the use of 1.4G consumer-grade fireworks (indicated on the packaging) on certain dates, including July 3-5 from 4 to 11 p.m., unless prohibited by local ordinances. If you are unsure whether your community has local fireworks-related laws on the books, you should check with law enforcement before the holiday arrives.

It is important to always remember that 1.3G fireworks are for professional use only, and it is illegal to manufacture, possess, store, or use 1.3G fireworks without the proper license and permit.

Adults who plan on making a last-minute shopping trip for fireworks should only purchase them from reputable and licensed retailers. A retailer's license can be verified by searching for them on the Division's online database here. Ohioans should never buy, tamper with, dismantle, or attempt to manufacture homemade fireworks, as they are extremely dangerous and illegal.

Fireworks in general cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage each year in Ohio. From Dec. 31, 2024 to Jan. 3, 2026, there were approximately 110 fireworks related incidents in Ohio with over $400,000 in property loss.

"It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday and to let your guard down when it comes to safety. Unfortunately, that's the root cause behind many visits to the emergency room this time of year," said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "Fireworks are not toys and they should only be handled by adults who understand how to safely use them. By following some simple precautions, Ohioans can help ensure the safety of themselves, their loved ones, and their property."

For those planning to use fireworks, the National Safety Council recommends the following safety tips:

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear.
• Never hold lit fireworks in your hand.
• Never light fireworks indoors.
• Only use fireworks away from people, homes, and flammable materials.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Light only one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Never ignite fireworks inside a container.
• Do not attempt to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that fail to go off or in case of fire.

Even trick or novelty fireworks, such as items that smoke, sparkle, snap, or snake, pose risks when not handled properly. The Division encourages the following safety guidelines:

• Only use trick and novelty devices under close adult supervision.
• Understand the hazards associated with each type of device.
• Carefully read and follow all package instructions.
• Light only one sparkler at a time and hold it away from yourself and others.
• Sparklers should only be used by individuals aged 12 or older.
• Immediately place used sparkler wires in a bucket of water, as they can remain hot for several minutes.

For additional fireworks-related safety information, visit com.ohio.gov/fireworks.

Grilling Safety

With may Ohioans expected to spend the holiday around the grill, the State Fire Marshal urges you to keep fire safety top of mind by following these simple tips:

• Keep grills at least three feet from homes, deck railings, and overhanging branches.
• Inspect propane tanks and fuel lines for leaks before use.
• Never leave grills unattended and keep children and pets at least three feet away.
• Clean grease buildup from trays and grates to prevent flare-ups.

Celebrate Responsibly

The Division of Liquor Control encourages Ohio adults to make smart choices when celebrating the holiday. Those who plan to consume alcohol should make sure to stay hydrated, eat regularly, and arrange for a safe ride if celebrating away from home. For example, you may consider downloading a rideshare app ahead of time or simply saving the phone number for a local taxi company in your cell phone.

Hosts can also help by making sure youth do not have access to alcohol, offering clearly labeled nonalcoholic beverages, and ensuring guests get home safely. Alcohol should never be provided to anyone under 21 or to individuals who are visibly impaired.

Similarly, the Division of Cannabis Control reminds adults that non-medical cannabis use is limited to those 21 and older, and supplying cannabis to minors can result in fines and potential jail time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can impact developing brains, which continue to mature until around age 25. Keeping cannabis products securely out of reach of children and teens is essential for their health and safety.

In the event you are planning to attend a public gathering, it's important to remember that Ohio law prohibits using non-medical cannabis in public spaces, and smoking or vaping restrictions in indoor public areas also apply to cannabis. Because marijuana remains a federally controlled substance, Ohio Administrative Code 4301:1-1-52 still prevents its use on liquor permit premises.

"We encourage all Ohioans to make safe and responsible choices with alcohol as they celebrate the upcoming Independence Day," Division of Liquor Control Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. "As our nation marks its 250th birthday, it's a meaningful time to come together, honor our history, and ensure everyone is able to enjoy the holiday safely."

"It's important for adults who choose to use cannabis to do so responsibly and with awareness of those around them," said Division of Cannabis Control Superintendent Jim Canepa. "Whether it's during Fourth of July festivities or any other time, cannabis products must be kept away from minors, and adults should follow all safety and legal guidelines."

###

About the Division of State Fire Marshal
The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.