July Fourth is here and you are encouraged to celebrate safely and considerately.

            Celebrating the holiday can be fun but always consider your neighbors and your pets.  And, don't forget about those who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD).  The sound of explosions could be harmful to them as well.

            Consumers can purchase and use "Class C" or "consumer-grade" fireworks such as firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets, and similar fireworks that contain a maximum of 50 milligrams of explosive material.

            "Display fireworks" are only to be used by professionals with a permit from the municipality where the display will take place. Display fireworks include salutes that contain more than two grains or 130 milligrams of explosive materials and professional-grade aerial shells containing more than 60 grams of pyrotechnic compositions.

            Anyone over the age of 18 years can purchase, possess and use consumer fireworks. Consumer fireworks do not include "ground and hand-held sparkling devices", "novelties" and "toy caps," which are permitted at all times throughout the Commonwealth.

            Restrictions for the use of fireworks in Pennsylvania include: Cannot be ignited or discharged on public or private property without express permission of the property owner; Cannot be directed at another person; Cannot be discharged from or directed at a building or vehicle; Cannot be discharged while the person is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance or another drug; Municipalities may restrict use of consumer fireworks between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. except on July 2, 3, 4 and Dec. 31 when they may be used until 1 a.m. If July 4 falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday they may be used until 1 a.m. on the immediately preceding and following Friday and Saturday; and perhaps the most abused restriction in communities is that fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet of a building or vehicle regardless if the building or vehicle is owned by the user of the consumer fireworks.

            Those in violation of the law could have their fireworks confiscated by Pennsylvania State Police, local Police, Sheriffs or Sheriff's deputy, or a member of a Pennsylvania bomb squad accredited by the FBI and certified in hazardous devices training.

            And, of course, you could be cited.

            Many local municipalities have additional ordinances that enhance some of the state laws.  If you have any questions check with your local municipality for applicable local ordinances.  Ignorance doesn't always get you off the hook for violations.

            Be considerate of your neighbors and those who might be harmed by the explosions.  It's only one day but we need to live together all year long.  Don't let one day of celebration ruin relationships with your neighbors.   

            Celebrate, but do so safely and considerately.