FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): With Independence Day celebrations just weeks away, fire officials are reminding Hoosiers that fireworks can quickly turn a holiday gathering into an emergency if they are not used properly.
The Fourth of July consistently ranks among the busiest times of the year for fire departments across the country, with thousands of fireworks-related injuries and fires reported annually. Local safety experts are encouraging families to make safety a priority before lighting any fireworks this holiday season.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of Americans are treated in emergency rooms each year for fireworks-related injuries, with burns to the hands, face and eyes among the most common injuries. Children and teenagers account for a significant portion of those incidents.
Fire officials say the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professionally organized public display. For those planning to use consumer fireworks at home, following basic safety precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of injury and property damage.
Experts recommend purchasing fireworks only from licensed and reputable retailers and carefully reading all instructions before use. Fireworks should always be used outdoors in a clear area away from homes, vehicles, dry grass, trees and other combustible materials.
Adults should closely supervise any fireworks activity, and children should never handle fireworks. Even sparklers, often viewed as harmless, can burn at temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees and are capable of causing serious injuries.
Fire departments also advise keeping a bucket of water, a garden hose or a fire extinguisher nearby whenever fireworks are being used. Used fireworks should be soaked thoroughly in water before being discarded to prevent accidental fires.
Another common mistake occurs when people attempt to relight fireworks that fail to ignite the first time. Safety officials warn that so-called “dud” fireworks can ignite unexpectedly and should never be approached immediately after failing to go off. Instead, users should wait several minutes and then soak the device in water.
The dry conditions often experienced during summer months can also increase the danger. A single spark landing in dry grass or landscaping can quickly spread into a larger fire, especially on windy days.
Pet owners are also being encouraged to plan ahead. Fireworks displays can create anxiety and fear in animals, causing some pets to flee homes and yards. Veterinarians recommend keeping pets indoors during peak fireworks hours and ensuring identification tags and microchip information are up to date.
Local emergency responders are also reminding residents to celebrate responsibly if alcohol is involved. Operating fireworks while impaired increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
Many communities throughout Indiana will host public fireworks displays during the holiday week, providing residents with a safer alternative to setting off fireworks at home.
As families prepare for cookouts, parades and celebrations, fire officials say a little planning can go a long way toward ensuring the holiday remains memorable for the right reasons.
“We want everyone to enjoy the Fourth of July,” one fire safety official said. “The best way to do that is to put safety first and make sure everyone goes home without injury.”
The Fourth of July remains one of the nation’s most celebrated holidays, and emergency responders hope that with increased awareness and caution, Hoosiers can safely enjoy the sights and sounds of Independence Day this year.
