Missouri and Arkansas – As everyone knows, it is officially that time of the year. Fireworks are back out and ready to be used. The sheriff’s offices and cities have put out reminders and safety tips about using fireworks during the upcoming holiday.
The Baxter County Sheriff’s office warned about Arkansas state regulations found in Arkansas Code 20-22-711. The regulations specify that fireworks may only be sold at retail and used with the State of Arkansas from June 20th through July 10th and from December 10th through January 5th each year. The law does not specify the specific hours of the day they must be used. Discharging or using fireworks outside of these date ranges can warrant a misdemeanor offense. The code provides a fine of up to $200 for violating it.
Fireworks sales at licensed seasonal retailers are legal in Missouri from June 20 to July 10. State permits should be displayed at all seasonal retail locations. Anyone with concerns about a fireworks dealer or the types of fireworks being sold by a dealer should contact the Division of Fire Safety at (573) 522-6207 or inspect@dfs.dps.mo.gov. Permits for fireworks displays may be granted to municipalities, fair associations, amusement parks, organizations, persons, firms, or corporations. For more information on fireworks display permits, visit fireworks displays.
- Purchase fireworks only from a properly licensed retailer.
- Always wear eye protection and earplugs if you have sensitive ears.
- Tie back long hair and don’t wear loose-fitting clothes.
- Only light one firework at a time.
- Never try to re-light fireworks that have malfunctioned.
- Never have any part of your body over fireworks.
- Keep young children away from fireworks.
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Make sure to have water nearby in case of a fire or an accident.
- Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and leaving them in a trash can.
- Never light fireworks indoors.
- Don’t use fireworks while consuming alcohol. Use a “designated shooter.”
- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Don’t save fireworks from season to season.
