As Lafayette Parish prepares to celebrate the Fourth of July, Lafayette Consolidated Government wishes to remind citizens of local fireworks laws and regulations and urges all to practice responsible fireworks handling.
In Lafayette Parish, the possession, use, handling, sales or the ignition of any fireworks within a city’s limits is strictly prohibited. Fireworks are permissible in the unincorporated areas of the parish only during designated times, beginning at noon on June 25 through 10:00 p.m. July 5. Fireworks may be used, set off and shot in the unincorporated areas from 8 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. during this eleven day period and until 1:00 a.m. on July 4. Minors under the age of 18 are prohibited from purchasing, possessing, handling or setting off fireworks.
Fireworks have been part of Independence Day celebration for many years. Though they are fun and exciting, fireworks can also be dangerous when mishandled. Fireworks can cause injuries, particularly burns, and start unintended fires. Citizens should take special care to follow all safety measures when handling fireworks. Residents are encouraged to attend public fireworks displays where available in local municipalities.
Tips for safe Fourth of July celebrations are as follows:
· Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
· Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
· Adults are responsilbe for all firework activities; children should never handle fireworks.
· Safety glasses should be worn when shooting fireworks.
· Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
· Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
· Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
· Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
· Never carry fireworks in pockets or shoot them from glass or metal containers.
· Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
