The fire danger around the North State remains high but as we get closer to the Fourth of July, more and more people will be buying and lighting off fireworks.
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The Office of the State Fire Marshal reports in 2014 47 percent of injuries occurred on July 4 and 34 percent of injuries were to the face and eyes. Hand, finger and facial injuries are the most common.
Last year, two National Football League players made headlines by losing fingers in accidents involving fireworks.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, each year fireworks cause more than 15,000 reported fires, including structure fires, vehicle fires and outside fires.
Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
The Fourth of July is around the corner, and while fireworks are a lot of fun, they can also be unsafe. A “dud” firework that does not go off should be put into the bucket for at least 20 minutes and never relit. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers.
Both of them also say people should never drink alcohol while using fireworks.
Don’t ever shoot a firework at another person or try to light a firework inside a container.
The safest bet is just leaving the light show to the experts because even it you think you know what you’re doing, fireworks can be unpredictable.
– Never give fireworks to small children.
Visit us at facebook.com/venturacityfire to stay informed about your Ventura City Fire Department.
“They burn at 2,000 to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the kind of temperatures the Space Shuttle might see during reentry, and that is not something that should be taken lightly around children”, he stresses. “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 bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishaps.
Those putting on a home fireworks display are encouraged to wear safety glasses or goggles and covered shoes, and to make sure their skin is covered in cotton clothing.
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First, purchase fireworks only from ME registered stores.
