As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the City of Greencastle is reminding residents that the public should not set off fireworks or use fireworks on city property. 

City property is defined as:  public streets, public sidewalks, parks, public parking lots, and any other property owned by the City of Greencastle.

Per state statute, citizens may use consumer fireworks only at the following locations:

• Special discharge locations designated by the State Fire Marshal;
• The property of the person using the fireworks; and
• The property of another who has given the individual permission to use fireworks on their property.

Individuals who set off fireworks, even in a legal location, may still be held liable for any resulting injuries or damages caused to another person or property.

Indiana law provides the following dates for consumer use of fireworks:

• June 29 to July 3 – from 9:00 a.m. to two hours after sunset
• July 4 – from 9:00 am to midnight
• July 5 to July 9 – from 9:00 am to two hours after sunset.

“We have a lot to celebrate in Greencastle this Fourth of July holiday,” said Mayor Bill Dory. “That’s why we want to make sure all citizens celebrate safely and responsibly, while protecting our city property and assets.” 

In Indiana, fireworks may only be used or possessed by individuals who are 18 years of age or older unless an adult is present and responsible at the location of possession or use. This year, the dry weather also will impact firework use, so citizens should have a water supply on hand to douse flames, hot debris, or dry grass. 

Residents are also reminded to respect others and the law, and to inform neighbors of fireworks use ahead of time. While fireworks on personal property can be entertaining and/or a family tradition, keep in mind: 

• Individuals with PTSD and other medical conditions, including veterans, may be impacted. 
• Pets may be negatively affected, and in some cases, run away to escape the stressful environment.

In 2021, the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission reported more than 11,500 injuries were treated at hospitals during the 30 days centered on July 4. These injuries included 1,500 firecracker injuries, 1,100 sparkler injuries, and 500 rocket injuries. The majority of injuries are to the face, hands and fingers. Local residents should follow recommended safety protocols and supervise children.

Greencastle’s local Celebrate 4 fireworks event, a professional fireworks display, will begin at dusk on July 4 in Robe Ann Park. Parking may be limited due to US 231 construction, so residents who live near the park should consider walking to the park. 

To learn more about firework safety, visit:

www.in.gov/dhs/get-prepared/fire-safety/fireworks-safety

https://www.cityofgreencastle.com/departments/fire-department#Fireworks