Monday, December 20, 1999
Fireworks to usher in 2000 with bang
Stores report rising sales, but experts urge caution in use
BY PHILLIP PINA
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Millennial enthusiasm will take to Tristate skies with a bang.
Rising fireworks sales indicate many residents plan to welcome the year 2000 with a noisy, bright display more common in New Year celebrations in some East Coast cities.
Phantom Fireworks in Amelia opened its store during the off-summer months for the first time, manager Bryce Purvis said.
Turns out, it was a good move.
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FIREWORKS LAWS
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Ohio
Allows purchase and use of sparklers, trick noisemakers, snakes and other novelties. Other fireworks can be purchased as long as buyers agree not to use them in-state. It is illegal to use any other type of firework without a permit. Violation is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to $1,000 fine and six months in jail.
Kentucky
Allows purchase and use of some, including sparklers, fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, ground spinners, snakes and other novelties. Banned are those with wings and labels saying “explosive,” “flaming balls,” “firecracker” and “rocket.” Violation is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to $1,000 fine and six months in jail.
Indiana
Allows purchase and use of sparklers, fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, ground spinners, snakes and other novelties. Violation is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to $5,000 fine and one year in jail.
Federal
Some fireworks, such as M-80s, cherry bombs and large aerial tube shells, are banned for unlicensed use.
Local exceptions
Cities and villages may have stricter laws. Check with the local police or fire department.
Sources: The National Council on Fireworks Safety and state fire marshals' offices
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“It's not the Fourth of July, but we're busy,” he said, adding that it should get busi er as the year ends.
Rozzi's Famous Fireworks of Symmes Township has booked 24 shows for Dec. 31, said show coordinator Nancy Rozzi, including for the first time shows at private residences and the World Peace Bell in Newport.
“It will be quite a night,” Ms. Rozzi said.
No surprise, said Amy Pescovitz, co-owner of Party Planners of Blue Ash. “People want to create something fabulous at midnight.”
Her firm is planning several big gatherings across the Tristate, including one at an eastern Hamilton County home where they want the New Year countdown to end with a bang.
Sales indicate it won't only be galas where fireworks will be shooting off, so a number of groups are urging hosts and celebrants to be cautious. The Consumer Product Safety Commission offers a number of safety tips, including:
• Never allow children to play with, or ignite the fireworks.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Be sure other people are out of range when lighting fireworks.
• Light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface, away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
• Never relight a firework that has not fully functioned.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby.
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