As Independence Day celebrations commence, public safety officials are reminding residents across the U.S. that fireworks should be used responsibly and in accordance with local laws to help prevent injuries, fires and property damage.
In the City of Ypsilanti, fireworks are prohibited except during certain hours on the day preceding, the day of and the day after a national holiday. Fireworks are still prohibited between the hours of 1 a.m. and 8 a.m.
Ypsilanti Township has restricted consumer fireworks use to the state minimum. For the upcoming holiday weekend, consumer fireworks are permitted from June 29th to July 4th from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
Township officials state on their website, "Unlawful use of fireworks can be reported to the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office by calling (734) 994 - 2911 for non-emergency police service. Emergencies including injuries and fires due to fireworks explosions should be reported using 911. Violators are subject to a civil infraction punishable by a fine of $1,000 for each occurrence."
In 2025, there were 13,000 people injured by fireworks and 15 fireworks-related deaths were reported nationwide, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Officials encourage anyone planning to use consumer fireworks to adhere to the following safety guidelines:
- Never allow young children to handle or ignite fireworks
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.
- Confirm that consumer fireworks are legal where they will be used and purchase only fireworks intended for consumer use.
- Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Light fireworks one at a time and move away immediately after lighting them.
- Never attempt to relight a firework that fails to ignite properly.
- Follow all manufacturer instructions and never hold fireworks in your hand unless the instructions permit it.
Officials encourage all residents to review local fireworks ordinances before celebrating and to attend professionally managed fireworks displays whenever possible for a safer alternative.
