BALTIMORE, MD—With the 4th of July weekend fast approaching, the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office is asking residents to attend public fireworks displays or follow safety precautions when using their own fireworks.

One way to safely enjoy the holiday is to attend one of the many public fireworks displays throughout the state, the Acting State Fire Marshal said in a statement.

Residents can also visit the Office of the State Fire Marshal to view a list (PDF) of all legal and permitted displays throughout the state.

Fireworks that are shot from a mortar tube are prohibited, but the most common types are still allowed. Some of these include firecrackers, cherry bombs, black cats, M-80’s, crackling balls, and smoke bombs.

If you do set off some fireworks at home, the State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends checking with local authorities to determine what fireworks are legal in that area.

Young children should not be allowed to use fireworks, and residents should not drink alcohol while using them. A bucket of water or hose should be kept available. Firework remains should be fully extinguished in water before disposal.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office reminds residents that anyone caught using fireworks can be issued a criminal citation and have their fireworks confiscated. The penalty for intending to ignite or ignite prohibited fireworks is $250.

“Fireworks have been a long tradition of the 4th of July holiday celebrations,” said Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray. “Please make safety your number one priority so everyone can enjoy the holiday season.”

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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