GLEN ROCK, Pa. -- Joe Porach struggles through a narrow door into a sun-baked parking lot, his brawny arms laden with his haul for the Fourth of July.
Snakes, candles, fountains, rockets, missiles and mortars.
Fireworks Safety tips and laws for nearby states. PG 6A
Safety tips
Be sure other people are out of range before lighting any fireworks.
Light fireworks only on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
Light only one firework at a time. Always wear eye protection. Never point or throw fireworks at other people or detonate in metal or glass containers.
Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).
Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned. Wait 15 to 20 seconds, then soak the device in a bucket of water.
Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water, then placing in your trash can.
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Never carry in your pocket.
Never give fireworks to small children.
[Sources: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, National Council on Fireworks Safety.]
Fireworks laws in nearby states
Delaware: All consumer fireworks are banned.
Pennsylvania: Sparklers, toy pistols using paper caps and ground-based sparklers are generally allowed. Aerial or reporting fireworks are banned for use without special permit and may not be sold to Pennsylvania residents.
Washington, D.C.: Toy paper caps, sparklers less than 20 inches in length, colored lights and ground-based sparklers generally legal. Fireworks that explode, move or fly upon lighting are banned.
West Virginia: Ground-based sparklers permitted. Exploding or flying fireworks prohibited.
Virginia: Sparklers, fountains, snakes, pinwheels and whirligigs permitted. Fireworks that explode, travel laterally, rise into the air or fire projectiles into the air are prohibited.
[Sources: American Pyrotechnics Association, Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal]