Fireworks safety reminders for Independence Day

Longmont Public Safety are expected to ticket people who are not complying to fireworks laws – that if they shoot into the sky or explode, they’re illegal.

Like any business man, Nettles hopes to sell as many fireworks as he can for the holiday. In 2014, an estimated 10,500 people were treated for firework-related injuries in hospital emergency rooms throughout the United States.

Despite their seemingly relative harmlessness, sparklers and small firecrackers cause the most fireworks-related injuries.

· Fireworks should always be used with extreme caution and should only be handled by adults.

Additional use restrictions may be implemented by incorporated cities and towns, the State Land Department, Arizona Game & Fish Department, National Forests, BLM, BIA, County & State Parks and the County Board of Supervisors.

“They might shine brightly and mesmerize, but the handheld fireworks known as sparklers are not toys to hand off to the little ones – or to anyone”. Use fireworks in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles, and light one at a time, then move away quickly.

“The Fourth of July is a busy time of year for our firefighters”, said Fire Chief Jerome Gaines.

A local firework vendor, Tim Stearns, said 4 of July is a day to celebrate our independence as a nation, but as a vendor there is only so much he can do to advise people to be safe. Just because it’s legal, does not mean they can’t cause some serious damage.

Rick Turri, public information officer for the Tonica Volunteer Fire Department, spoke of the most common injuries and mistakes made during this nationwide celebration.

Weather and geographical conditions could also affect how and where you enjoy fireworks this Fourth of July.

Just in case, the CPSC suggests you keep a bucket of water or a hose near your launch pad.

Wadus Parker plans to give family and friends a light show Monday night by setting off his own fireworks. “Even something as simple as sparklers can cause severe burns, so it’s important to take precautions with any type of firework”.

· Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially glass or metal containers.