Mineola, N.Y- Nassau County Executive Thomas R. Suozzi, along with Nassau County Legislator Joseph Scannell (D-Baldwin) today announced new legislation that will strengthen Nassau County's Fire Prevention Ordinance concerning indoor pyrotechnic displays in places of public assembly.

Currently there is no County law that mandates a permit for such displays.

The purpose of the new law is to provide reasonable protection for pyrotechnic operators, performance support personnel, and audiences where pyrotechnic special effects are used. These new provisions will adopt and require compliance with the National Fire Protection Association standards that apply to the use of pyrotechnics in the performing arts in conjunction with theatrical, musical or similar productions. Audience, performers and support personnel are covered.

"The idea is to stop pyrotechnic shows everywhere unless the venue is large enough and safe enough," said County Executive Suozzi. "We have learned an awful lesson from the tragedy in Rhode Island and it is up to us to prevent that from happening in Nassau County."

The push for legislation comes just two-weeks after a concert by the band Great White at a bar in Rhode Island where a fire caused by pyrotechnics broke out, killing almost 100 people.

"Because of tough new standards imposed under this new law, except for the Nassau Coliseum and a handful of other larger venues, pyrotechnics will be banned from almost all bars or smaller concert venues," explained Suozzi. "It's far too dangerous to allow otherwise," concluded Suozzi.

Some of the specifics of the bill include the requirement of 30 days written notification to the Fire Marshal, Police Department Arson/Bomb Squad and the local fire department before an event and the posting on the premises of a permit for the event issued by the Nassau County Fire Marshal. The site for the pyrotechnic displays would also have to be inspected and approved by the Fire Marshal and the Nassau County Police Department Arson/Bomb Squad prior to the event.

"By requiring a permit for these kinds of displays, it is hoped that Nassau County venues will be safer for all those who attend events," said Legislator Scannell.

Penalties for the failure to adhere to these rules range from fines to imprisonment and fees are listed for permit, plan review and site inspection.