Planning to celebrate July 4 with fireworks? Here’s what Ann Arborites need to know

A photo of a firework display. ((Pixabay))

ANN ARBOR – Summer is the season for barbeque, beer and things that go boom, but Ann Arborites need to be careful where and when they launch fireworks.

Tree Town community members can only let off fireworks to celebrate July 4 -- or to just celebrate in general -- between June 29 to July 5 this year.

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This follows the Michigan Fireworks Safety Act 256 of 2011, which states that fireworks can only be let off between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. on those specific days.

Community members need permission to use fireworks at city parks, schools and any public or private property that community members don’t own.

If you are planning to play with fire(works), keep these tips in mind:

  • Keep fireworks away from your eyes and face.
  • Don’t launch fireworks (of any kind) into forests or fields as this could cause any dry leaves or grass to catch on fire.
  • Have a water source close by in order to spray embers from fireworks and to drench the fireworks launch area when done. Keep a water source ready to spray embers from fireworks. Drench the entire area where you’ve been using fireworks when done.
  • Put used fireworks into a bucket of water for 24 hours before throwing them out.
  • If a firework won’t ignite, do not try to reignite it--just don’t.

Community members planning to use strobes, Roman candles, crossettes, firecrackers and ground spinners--among other types of fireworks--should be courteous to their neighbors by giving them a heads up.

Be mindful of local military veterans, those with fearful pets, or anyone else who is noise sensitive.

Learn more about firework usage in Ann Arbor here.


About the Author

Sarah has worked for WDIV since June 2018. She covers community events, good eats and small businesses in Ann Arbor and has a Master's degree in Applied Linguistics from Grand Valley State University.

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