mind the visitors and citizens of the
danger involved with consumer fire-
works as the Fourth of July holiday
approaches.
2011, fireworks caused an estimat-
ed 17,800 reported fires, including
1,200 structure fires, 400 vehicle
fires and 16,300 outside and other
fires. These fires resulted in an esti-
mated 40 civilian injuries and $32
million in direct property damage.
out of five of all reported fires, which
is more than any other cause of
fire," said Ocean City Fire Marshal
David Hartley. "In addition to caus-
ing damage, fireworks can cause
injuries and we want people to be
safe during their holiday stay in
Ocean City. The safety and wellbe-
ing of all residents and visitors of
the Town of Ocean City is the pri-
mary goal of the Ocean City Fire
Department."
based sparkling devices such as
cylindrical and cone fountains,
these are not legal to use or pos-
sess in Ocean City. All other fire-
works that may be sold in neighbor-
ing states are not legal for use by
the general public anywhere in
Maryland.
beled sparklers, "Snap-N-Pops,"
"Black Cobra Snakes" and "Party
Poppers" are allowed to be used
and possessed without a license.
However, injuries and property
damage may still occur from these
types of products, so parental su-
pervision is always encouraged.
into the state if the fireworks are to
be possessed, used, sold, or distrib-
uted by citizens of Maryland. Illegal
fireworks found are subject to seiz-
ure by law enforcement authorities,
and persons found in possession of
illegal fireworks with the intent to
use them run the risk of both crimi-
nal charges and the confiscation of
the fireworks. Fines for possession
of illegal fireworks may be as much
as $250, and those found selling or
distributing illegal fireworks may be
fined as much as $1,000.
Ocean City Fire Department, Office
of the Fire Marshal at 410-289-
8780.