Illinois residents asked to leave fireworks to the pros

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - State officials are asking Illinois residents to leave Fourth of July fireworks displays to professionals.

In a news release, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Office of the State Fire Marshal say it's illegal to sell and use hand-held fireworks like bottle rockets and firecrackers. And they're warning organizations and others sponsoring fireworks displays in Illinois must make sure that their fireworks vendors have all the required licenses and certificates that they issue.

Using, selling or purchasing display fireworks without a valid IDNR individual explosives license or storage certificate is illegal and a lot more expensive than a pack of firecrackers. The release says that violating the Illinois Explosives Act can be a felony with a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.