With the Fourth of July holiday almost upon us, area fire departments are joining together to warn citizens about the dangers of fireworks.
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According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause an estimated 18,500 reported fires in the U.S each year. “The most common type of injury we see are sparklers dripping onto hands, fireworks exploding near faces”.
In fact, injuries due to fireworks skyrocket this time of year, with thousands of people nationwide winding up in the emergency room on or around the holiday.
According to the consumer product safety commission, the majority of firework injuries occur on the hands and fingers.
Fire officials issue safety warnings every Fourth of July, but they say there is added concern this year because of the unusually dry weather in recent weeks.
State Fire Marshal Julie Secontine said fireworks are a risky thrill, and she recommends they be left to professionals.
Under city ordinance, fireworks can be sold Friday through Monday, but can only be shot in Chanute from 6 am to midnight Monday.
Adults should always supervise fireworks activities.
U.S.in 2013 caused by fireworks.
Both of them also say people should never drink alcohol while using fireworks. The risk of fireworks injury was highest for young people ages 0-4, followed by children 10-14.
Sparklers may seem harmless, but firefighters say they can burn up to 2,000 degrees and are still a fire hazard when they burn out. “Be cautious of lighting any fireworks during strong wind conditions and light fireworks with wind blowing away from where you are shooting the fireworks”.
Most of the time, these injuries happen because the fireworks ignite unexpectedly or because of inappropriate usage, the CPSC said.
“Keep a garden hose or bucket of water handy”.
As Americans prepare to celebrate the nation’s 240th birthday, the Division of Fire Safety is reminding Missourians that professional fireworks shows offer the most exciting and entertaining sights – and are the safest way to enjoy fireworks.
Never use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives.
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– Never put any body part directly over a firework device after lighting the fuse, and make sure you back up immediately.
