Wilton’s new fire chief, Ronald Kanterman is cautioning residents about the dangers of fireworks, as the July 4th holiday nears. He issued a press release, sponsored by four public safety organizations: CT Career Fire Chief’s Association, CT Fire Marshal’s Association, CT Fire Chief’s Association and CT Police Chief’s Association.
“The 4th of July season is upon us and public safety officials caution the general population against the dangers of fireworks. Each year nationwide, on average, there are 10,000 injuries, three deaths and 25,000 fires due to the use of illegal fireworks. Don’t become a statistic!” Kanterman writes.
The only personal-use fireworks permitted by law in Connecticut are sparklers and fountains. However, Kanterman cautions that fireworks of any type (including sparklers and fountains) are banned in and around the viewing area during the Town of Wilton July 4 celebrations at the Wilton High School athletic fields.
Illegal devices to use, store or sell in Connecticut include: bottle rockets, Chinese Lanterns, firecrackers, black cats, lady fingers, Roman candles, smoke bombs, party poppers, snakes, professional display aerial shells shot from mortar tubes without a permit from the State Fire Marshal, M-80’s, M-100’s, cherry bombs, blockbusters, quarter sticks and similar devices.
Kanterman also writes: “Illegal possession of explosives is a felony. Purchasing and transporting explosives across state lines is a crime.” He adds, “Fire Chiefs and Fire Marshals along with Law Enforcement and others in the Public Safety community urge you to enjoy your 4th of July season by taking your friends and families to a legal, licensed, and permitted public fireworks display—and leave it to the professionals.”