As communities across Illinois prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) are urging individuals and organizations to prioritize fireworks safety and ensure all displays are properly licensed and permitted.
Under the Illinois Explosives Act, any person or group purchasing, possessing, using, storing, transferring, or disposing of explosives—including display fireworks—must hold an explosives license and explosives storage certificate issued by IDNR. These regulations are in place to safeguard both the public and the environment during professional fireworks shows.
The licensing and storage rules overseen by IDNR do not apply to consumer fireworks, which are classified as 1.4 explosives. Consumer fireworks are instead regulated by the OSFM and may only be used in municipalities or counties that have passed ordinances permitting their use. Additionally, consumer fireworks can only be purchased and used by adults who obtain a local permit.
Notably, handheld fireworks—including firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles—are illegal for sale or use in Illinois.
Officials cite alarming statistics to emphasize the risks involved with fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks were responsible for an estimated 31,302 fires in 2022, including 3,504 structure fires, 887 vehicle fires, and 26,492 outdoor fires. These incidents caused six civilian deaths, 44 injuries, and over $109 million in property damage.
Many of these fires, authorities warn, were not only caused by commercial or consumer-grade fireworks but also by unregulated novelty items commonly sold at supermarkets.
One of the most dangerous culprits is the sparkler—often handed to children during celebrations. Sparklers burn at temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt metal and cause severe burns or permanent scarring with even brief contact.
The July 2024 seasonal reporting period saw 156 fireworks-related injuries reported across 45 hospitals and healthcare facilities in Illinois, including one fatality. Health officials noted that 98 injuries were caused directly by fireworks, and approximately half of those affected suffered multiple injuries.
State officials urge Illinois residents to follow safety guidelines, obtain proper permits, and leave fireworks displays to trained, licensed professionals.
For more information on fireworks licensing, visit the IDNR website or contact the Office of the State Fire Marshal regarding local consumer fireworks ordinances and permits.
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