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4th of July fireworks: Know what’s allowed in your area

Safety experts say the best advice is to leave professional grade fireworks to the professionals. That includes firecrackers, cherry bombs, bottle rockets, M-80s and Roman candles, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. It also noted that 11 people were killed in 2014 and cited five recent deaths due to the inappropriate use of both legal and illegal fireworks.

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“Fireworks can be a significant fire risk during the summer months”, said Daniel Berlant, department information officer for CAL Fire.

Legal (left) and illegal (right) fireworks displayed.

Turns out, children aged 5 to 9 are more than twice as likely as other age groups to be injured by fireworks.

Ensure that you have a safe holiday by checking the Division of State Fire Marshal list of more than 2,000 sparklers that are approved for use in Florida. Illegal fireworks will be confiscated and those caught with them could be fined or face jail time. Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.

Libby and Marson suggest keeping a full bucket of water, as well as a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.

U.S.in 2013 caused by fireworks.

Another important lesson: don’t set off fireworks if you’re intoxicated.

Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.

Holland also said shooting fireworks under the influence of drugs or alcohol can be potentially risky because people are less careful than they would normally be.

The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns.

“We’ve made a decision at this point not to issue a burn ban or a fireworks ban, but we are monitoring the situation very closely and it’s a day-to-day assessment”.

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– Once they’re done burning, douse fireworks in water before throwing them out so you don’t cause a trash fire. People are able to light fireworks on neighborhood streets, but all fireworks that shoot into the air or move along the ground are illegal anywhere in California. Check with your local town hall, municipality, or your local newspaper to find scheduled fireworks displays in your area.

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