Happy Fourth of July, Orlando.

In an effort to make this a fun, safe, and memorable holiday we’ve rounded up some of the best events and tips to get through this crazy day. But first, let’s take a minute to look at the legal stuff, like did you know that the State of Florida strictly regulates the sale and use of fireworks?

THE RULES:

• Lighting anything larger than a sparkler for the purpose of putting on a display, without a permit, is a misdemeanor in the State of Florida and you could face a $1,000 fine or a year in jail. Sparklers, as stated in Section 791.013 of the Florida Statue, includes devices like “snakes” or “glow worms,” smoke devices, party poppers, “booby traps,” “snappers,” or devices with paper caps like toy guns where the hand cannot contact the cap when exploding. Noisemakers are also allowed.
• Large events looking to have a fireworks show can apply HERE for a Special Event Fireworks Permit.
• The waiver you sign in the store when you buy the fireworks only protects the vendor, not you if you use the items for illegal purposes.
• According to City Code Section 42.06 – Noises from fireworks and show pyrotechnics are exempt from noise ordinances. But again, that’s only if they have a permit.

 

FIREWORKS SAFTEY:

Fireworks are a must-have for July 4 events, but they’re explosives; tiny, irresistible boomsticks that can really hurt you if you’re not careful and pay attention. In 2017, at least eight people died from fireworks accidents and over 12,900 others ended up in the emergency room. Here’s a list of ways to avoid hurting yourself today:

• Go see a professional fireworks show at one of the events at the bottom of this post. They get paid to blow things up. You probably bought your explosives from the back of a truck.
• Don’t give fireworks to children. Not just because they could hurt themselves, but they’re kids, they could hurt someone else just as easily. Keep them at least 30 feet away.
• Read the directions. If you’re too drunk, get someone else to read them and sit your butt back down and enjoy the show.
• Only light one firework at a time.
• Don’t relight a dud firework. Put it in a bucket of water and cuss into your drink like an adult.
• Keep a hose and a bucket of water nearby.
• Don’t put the firework in your pocket. Why are we even telling you this?
• Sparklers burn at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. That can melt glass.
• Click HERE for more safety tips from the City of Orlando.

 

PETS:

• Your pets don’t like fireworks. Leave them at home and give them CBD oil or something. If your dog gets out, like Beulah did, let us know and we’ll help you find them.
• Also, HERE is a link to some videos that are supposed to relax your pet during firework displays and thunderstorms. Designate a safe space for them to chill out and play some soft music to block out some of the noise. Play with them to distract them and to burn off some of that anxious energy.
• Make sure your pet has current ID tags with your updated contact information. Animal shelters across the country see a 30-40 percent increase in lost pets between July 4-6, with July 5 being one of the busiest days of the year.

 

BEST-BET EVENT PICKS:

Independence Bash – Presented by Baldwin Park & Florida Hospital