With Independence Day this weekend,  the Office of State Fire Marshal and the Maine Forest Service advises:

A person may use consumer fireworks only on that person's property or on the property of a person who has consented to that use of fireworks on that property.

 

Consumer fireworks may be used between the hours of 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. except on the following dates when they may be used between 9 a.m. and 12:30 a.m. the following day:

 

July 4th

 

December 31st, and

 

The weekends immediately before and after July 4th and December 31st

 

Users and those in possession of consumer fireworks must be 21 years of age.

 

Set off fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from houses, dry leaves, or grass and other flammable materials.

 

Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies.

 

Do not handle fireworks that fail to go off.

 

Use a long-handled shovel to scoop up the firework and immerse it in the bucket of water.

 

Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks.

 

Soak them with water and throw them away.

 

Be sure other people and children are out of range before lighting fireworks.

 

Never light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.

 

Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.

 

Always use fireworks according to the 'manufacturer's directions and guidelines.

 

Always use eye, ear, and hand personal protective equipment.

 

Observe all local laws and ordinances.

 

Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.

 

When the use of fireworks is done, continue to watch the area of use to be sure that all fireworks debris is out and not smoldering or hot.

 

Search any forested area adjacent to and downwind of the ignition site looking for hot or smoldering debris.

 

Scan the forest canopy, as well as the ground.

 

If a wildfire occurs as a result of negligence, then you may be responsible for fire suppression costs.

 

In case of emergency, dial 911.

 

Campfire Safety Tips

Before considering burning, check www.mainefireweather.org for local fire conditions.

 

Keep the fire small, not tall. That way, if you have to leave suddenly, it is easy to extinguish.

 

The campfire should be at least 50 feet away from any structures and on level ground.

 

Do not use accelerants to start your fire.

 

Always have plenty of water on hand and tools available to put out the fire.

 

When you are done, check the fire several times to ensure it is out.

 

Supervise children and pets near the fire and never leave your fire unattended.

About MFS

Since 1891, the mission of the MFS is to protect and enhance forest resources through fire prevention, technical assistance, education, outreach to a wide variety of audiences; and enforcement of forest protection laws. MFS offices are found throughout Maine and provide its citizens with a wide range of forest-related services. For more information about the MFS and its programs, visit http://www.maineforestservice.gov.