Crime to set off fireworks in New York

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Fireworks are one thing people look forward to this holiday weekend. But officials are reminding residents, fireworks are dangerous.

Erie County Sheriff Tim Howard wants everyone to know just how dangerous celebrating the 4th of July can be when it comes to fireworks. He says don't be fooled by the innocent packaging and fun names.

"Leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. These are more dangerous than people would like to believe," said Howard.

That's why all fireworks are now banned in New York. While buying them in neighboring states is legal, it's still a crime to set them off.

Howard said, "While they are sold in Pennsylvania and while they are sold in Ohio, people from Pennsylvania and Ohio are not allowed to keep them and use them, because those states recognize that they are too dangerous and unsafe."

Despite all the warnings, there's a reason why the sheriff chose Women and Children's Hospital to hold a press conference. Each year fireworks cause nearly 30,000 fires and almost 10,000 injuries as a result. In fact doctors say sparklers, as harmless as they appear, account for a majority of emergency room visits.