Lafayette Consolidated Government is reminding citizens of local fireworks laws and regulations as New Year's celebrations approach.
Officials are also urging everyone to practice responsible fireworks handling.
LCG says that in Lafayette Parish, the possession, use, handling, sales or the ignition of any fireworks within a city's limits is strictly prohibited. Fireworks are permissible in the unincorporated areas of the parish only.
All other local municipalities have their own fireworks laws and regulations.
Minors under the age of 18 are prohibited from purchasing, possessing, handling or setting off fireworks.
Fireworks may be used, set off, and shot only in unincorporated areas of Lafayette Parish from December 15 to January 1 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. with exception of December 24 to 1:00 a.m. December 25 and December 31 to 1:00 a.m. January 1.
While fun and exciting, LCG says that fireworks can also be dangerous when mishandled. Citizens are asked to take special care to follow all safety measures when handling fireworks.
"Safety is our concern. We want Lafayette residents to enjoy a safe holiday. In doing so, we encourage citizens to practice all safety precautions when using fireworks," said Lafayette Fire Department Public Information Officer Alton Trahan.
Tips for safe celebrations with fireworks are as follows:
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
- Adults are responsible for all firework activities; children should never handle fireworks.
- Keep fireworks away from small children.
- Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
- Never carry fireworks in pockets or shoot them from glass or metal containers.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Never light fireworks while impaired.
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