Fire Works Information

What kinds of fireworks can I use legally?The short answer: not many. Fireworks generally approved for use by consumers include sparklers; small fireworks that emit colored smoke only; and "glow worms," which burn in bright colors without exploding. The state fire marshal has a full list, including brand names, at myfloridacfo.com/sfm/sparklerindex.htm. "These are the only items consumers without a permit can legally use," said Nina Ashley, a fire marshal's spokeswoman. Other, more high-powered fireworks are permitted only for industrial use or by professionals in public displays. So everything else is off limits? If it explodes, flies or lifts off, the law prohibits you from lighting it. That includes the popular Roman candles."There is no approved list of 'whiz, boom, bang or stuff that leaves the ground' for the retail public," said Bart Wright, the Maitland Fire Department's assistant chief of administration. "Florida Statute 791 is explicit about that. Consumer purchase and use of such material is unsafe, a threat and, most importantly, illegal in this state."