Fireworks can ensure your New Year rings in with a bang, but they can also pose safety concerns for consumers who choose to produce their own backyard show. To avoid injuries or starting a fire, the Tennessee State Fire Marshal's Office (SFMO) is advising residents to always leave fireworks to the experts for the New Year's celebration.
"Celebrating the start of a new year with a fireworks display is a tradition for many residents," said Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance Commissioner and State Fire Marshal Julie Mix McPeak. "While fireworks are fun to watch, they can also pose a safety hazard for those detonating them. We encourage consumers to attend public displays run by professionals to keep their New Year's activities safe and fun."
Thousands of people, most often children and teens, are seriously injured each year because of fireworks. In Tennessee, fireworks caused 377 unintended fires and resulted in over $1 million in property damages and one death from 2013-2017 according to state fire data. The State Fire Marshal's Office strongly advises that individuals attend organized public fireworks displays where compliance with state-of- the-art fire codes offers a safer way to ring in a new year.
Citizens in the city limits of Murfreesboro must also be aware that there are specific times that use of fireworks is permitted inside the city limits. According to City Code, "Fireworks may be used between 10:00 am and 12:00 am (midnight) on December 31st, and between 12:01 am (midnight) and 1:00 am and 10:00 am and 11:00 pm on January 1st."
If consumers choose to shoot fireworks themselves, they should familiarize themselves with local fireworks laws. Several counties and cities in Tennessee have ordinances and restrictions related to fireworks usage. Before purchasing or detonating fireworks, the SFMO urges residents to check with their local police or fire departments to determine local laws about fireworks.
