List Of Michigan Communities Banning Fireworks Continues To Grow

DETROIT (WWJ) - The list of communities banning fireworks and open burning, or warning against the use of fireworks, is growing larger due to dry conditions plaguing the metro Detroit area.

The following communities have banned the use of fireworks and/or open burning over the Fourth of July holiday weekend: Canton Township, Clarkston, Corunna, Dearborn Heights, Ecorse, Farmington, Farmington Hills, Highland Township, Holly, Lyon Township, Milford, Montrose Township, Northville Township, Orion Township, Oxford Township, Shelby Township, Pontiac and Washington Township.

Communities that have warned against the use of fireworks include the following: Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Garden City, Livonia, Melvindale, New Baltimore, Orion Township and Waterford Township.

Residents are urged to contact their local fire department to check on the status of any ban before setting off fireworks.

The Department of Natural Resources has designated southeastern Michigan as being in "extreme fire danger." This is the most dangerous rating which causes fires to start easily, spread quickly and burn intensely making them difficult to control and extinguish.

[Metro Detroit Area Fireworks Shows Through July 4th]

Residents who still choose to use fireworks are advised that they are liable for personal injury, property damage and fires caused by their fireworks.

Residents who ignore the fire danger warning are reminded that under state law, fireworks use is only allowed the day before, day of and day after a federal holiday. No fireworks are allowed between midnight to 8 a.m. Violating the law is a civil infraction, punishable by fines of up to $500.

Due to the dry conditions, residents are also urged to use caution with all recreational fires, including grills and fire pits.

Safety tips for setting off fireworks

• Do NOT use fireworks in areas where the grass and surrounding brush are unusually dry or near wooded areas
• In the case of a fire, no matter how small, do not delay calling 911
• A fire extinguisher and hose should be ready in the case of a fire
• Used fireworks should be placed in a bucket of water to help ensure they are completely extinguished
• You cannot discharge fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
• It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to purchase or discharge consumer fireworks

Stay with WWJ Newsradio 950 and CBSDetroit.com for the latest as more communities are added to the list.