Pinellas County bans the retail sale, purchase or use of fireworks that project into the air or explode.

PINELLAS COUNTY – Setting off fireworks is a traditional way to help usher in the new year, but if you do so in Pinellas, you’re breaking the rules.

County officials are reminding Pinellas residents of the ban on the retail sale, purchase or use of fireworks that project into the air or explode. Pinellas County Emergency Medical Services and Fire Administration urges residents to play it safe by enjoying fireworks displays that are conducted by trained professionals.

Sparklers and fountains remain legal, but they can be dangerous, reaching temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, officials say. Only those older than 12 should handle sparklers of any type. Many young people get burned by sparklers every year, so responsible adult supervision is necessary at all times.

Officials urge extreme caution and advise residents to follow basic safety recommendations:

• Read and understand all product warnings.
• Never place any body part directly over a device when lighting the fuse.
• Use sparklers only as intended outdoors.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• After using these devices, douse them with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding.

For information about Pinellas County, go to pinellascounty.org.

Pinellas County | Fireworks | Fireworks Ban | New Year’s Eve | TB Reporter

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