The state fire marshal’s office says before you slap down the cash for fireworks to ignite on New Year’s Eve, make sure the retailer is licensed.
“That is something they should have on record there at the sales location to show they have a permit from us,” said state fire marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue.
Over the SFM and deputies issued cease and desist orders to eight fireworks stands in five parishes, Sabine, Lafayette, Acadia, St. Martin and Iberia parishes. A large warehouse in Acadia Parish was also shut down.
Over 350 retail fireworks permits have been issued for the 2018 holiday season, as it is state law for wholesale and retail fireworks business operators to be appropriately licensed by the SFM. The sales season extends through January 1.
Before you light your fireworks, have a bucket of water nearby to douse used up explosives. Rodrigue says light only one firework at a time and before lighting up…
“We want to make sure that people always read and follow the label directions on those fireworks carefully and please do not light fireworks after you’ve been consuming alcohol,” said Rodrigue.
Adults should always supervise children when fireworks are in play, and not allow kids to ignite, or hold the devices.
She also says leave the guns inside tonight.
“There is absolutely no excuse for using firearms to make sound or a flash to entertain people,” said Rodrigue.
