Summer is for fireworks, make fire safety priority

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Stephen Pina
  • MacDill Fire Department fire inspector
MacDill AFB, Fla --  It would be hard to imagine July 4th festivities in the United States without public displays of fireworks. But celebrations can become tragic when someone is seriously injured by consumer fireworks.

 Every year Americans look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, and the Fourth of July. The fourth of July, however, also brings fires and injuries due to fireworks. Annually just under 10,000 Americans are injured by fireworks. In 2007, 64 percent of fireworks injuries occurred between June 22 and July 22.

If you decide to go camping or watch the local display please keep in mind that knowing these few safety tips and instructions will help everyone have a safe summer.

· The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks. 
· If you plan to use fireworks, make sure they are legal in your area. 
· Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
· Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate  the fire extinguisher properly. If you are camping, follow the instructions of the campgrounds.
· Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
· Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a devise does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
· Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a devise is not marked with the contents, direction and a warning label, do not light it.
· Supervise children around fireworks at all times
· After the fireworks display, children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over; they may still be active.

Although Hillsborough County has lifted its burn ban and it is legal to use fireworks, exercise caution this year when using fireworks around vegetation. The most common thermal burn injuries to children 14 and younger are fireworks mishaps and approximately 58 percent of all fireworks related injuries are burns to the hands, head, and eyes.

 If you have any questions concerning fireworks please contact the Fire Prevention office at 828-3630. Please have a safe and joyous Fourth of July celebration.