If you plan to take part in 4th of July fireworks celebrations, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Uncle Norm’s Fireworks has been in business for 15 years on both sides of the river.
This year, it’s not just one thing, rather everything is flying off the shelves.
In Illinois, the Pyrotechnic Use Act only lets residents use things like sparklers, small cap guns, and snappers – considered novelty items, not fireworks.
What’s banned are firecrackers, roman candles, and any kind of rockets.
But in Rock Island, police tell Local 4 News you can only use sparklers.
On the Iowa side of the Quad Cities, all consumer fireworks are legal.
Uncle Norm’s co-owner, John Norris, says everything in his Milan and Davenport stores are legal for that state, and stresses safety for first-timers.
“Make sure small cakes are braced, and reloadables’ mortar tubes are solid based,” says Norris. “The last thing you want is a cake to fall over, because it’ll shoot to the crowd.”
Bettendorf Fire Chief Steve Knorrek says to keep fireworks at least 20 feet from buildings.
He warns, residents are responsible for fireworks that cause damage to other locations – including if it goes into their neighbor’s yard.
In Scott County, you’re only allowed to use fireworks on July 3rd and 4th from 2 p.m. until 11 p.m.
If you break the law, fines start at $250.
The legal age to buy fireworks is 18 in both states.
Click here for Illinois fireworks rules.
Click here for Iowa fireworks rules.
