Firework Safety Information

As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, local residents are reminded that the sale and use of fireworks are regulated by the City of Mt. Juliet. Fireworks can add to the exciting celebrations, but if they are not used safely, fireworks can cause severe burns, damage to the eyes, and even death. It is essential that everyone uses fireworks safely, especially given the warmer temperatures and drying conditions taking place across the Middle Tennessee area. The Fourth of July is responsible for many burn injuries that are associated with premature detonation or misuse of fireworks. Most firework burn injuries occur with children. These injuries usually include burns to the hands and eyes causing vision impairment. Firework related injuries can be avoided, and the Mt. Juliet Police Department urges residents to follow safety tips and to be careful during their holiday celebrations.

City of Mt. Juliet Rules and Regulations:

Fireworks Sales:

• Dates: June 20th to July 4th
• Hours of Operation: 8 am to 10 pm

 Fireworks Discharge/Permitted Dates and Times:

• July 3rd: 5 pm to 10 pm
•  July 4th: 5 pm to 10 pm
• July 5th: 5 pm to 10 pm

 Restrictions:

•  It is unlawful to discharge or use fireworks during a burn ban.
•  It is unlawful to explode or ignite fireworks within:
  • 600 feet of any church, hospital, funeral home, public or private school.
  • 200 feet of where fireworks are stored, sold, or offered for sale.
• Fireworks must only be used or discharged during the permissible times set forth in the ordinance.

Safety Rules:

• Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult while discharging fireworks.
• Individuals must not be under the influence of any substances while discharging fireworks.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in the hopes that injuries can be greatly reduced:

• Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
• Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
• Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
• Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.
• Know your fireworks. Read the caution label before igniting.
• Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
• Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
• Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives: They can kill you!
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

Note these special safety tips, if using sparklers:

• Always remain standing while using sparklers.
• Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
• Never hold, or light, more than one sparkler at a time.
• Never throw sparklers.
• Sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop spent sparklers in a bucket of water.
• Teach children not to wave sparklers, or run, while holding sparklers.