Credit: Yasmin Perez
Township officials are reminding Middletown residents to abide by Pennsylvania’s fireworks law.
The reminder was issued to the public and to media outlets after scores of residents have complained this year about out-of-control home fireworks displays across the township.
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While Pennsylvania’s relaxed law allows for easier access to a wide variety of fireworks, but there are still regulations in place.
“There are practically no locations in Middletown Township that fireworks can be discharged legally or safely,” said Fire Marshal Jim McGuire. “We’ve seen many instances where people have been hurt, killed, or have set their own or their neighbor’s home on fire from discharging fireworks in an inappropriate or illegal location.”
Under state law, fireworks cannot be discharged within 150 feet, approximately half of a football field, of any occupied structure, regardless of whether there is a person inside. In addition to areas in close proximity to structures, discharging fireworks is prohibited on all public property, included streets, parks, and open spaces. Fireworks also cannot be discharged within or toward a motor vehicle or building, or by anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Display-grade fireworks are only permissible when a permit is obtained from the township.
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McGuire told the Board of Supervisors last month the state law rules out most locations in densely populated Middletown.
“During the Independence Day holiday, there was confusion about what was permitted. Many residents suffered the constant intrusion of fireworks in their neighborhoods, impacting young children and pets” said Supervisors Chairperson Amy Strouse. “The goal of this public information campaign is to educate the entire community.”
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Fireworks law violations can lead to citations and fines.
Police and the fire marshal’s office will be out making sure fireworks laws are following over the Labor Day holiday, officials said.
