Fireworks are dangerous and unpredictable, especially in the hands of amateurs. The few seconds of pleasure illegal fireworks may bring are not worth the risk of injury, permanent scarring, or even starting a fire. Celebrate safely.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), far more fires are reported on July 4 than on any other day, and fireworks account for more than half of those fires, greater than any other cause of fires. In 2011, fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 reported fires, including 1,200 structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated 40 civilian injuries, and $32 million in direct property damage.
In 2011, hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 9,600 people for fireworks related injuries. Fifty-four percent of the 2011 fireworks injuries were burns, while one-quarter were contusions and lacerations. The risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages 5-19, with more than twice the risk for the general population. Sparklers and novelties alone accounted for 34 percent of the emergency room firework injuries in 2011.
In Frederick County, only Ground-Based Sparkling Devices (GBSD), gold label hand-held sparklers, and certain novelty items such as snap-n-pops and party poppers are legal. It is illegal to discharge, allow the discharge, or possess fireworks with the intent to discharge, in Frederick County and throughout the State. Fireworks that explode, shoot into the air or travel along the ground are illegal. One way to assure that fireworks are legal is to purchase them from the same jurisdiction where you plan to use them.
There are several public fireworks displays taking place throughout Frederick County. Check the Fire and Rescue website at www.frederickcountymd.gov/FM and select the link for “Approved Fireworks Displays” to see a listing for the date, time and locations in the area.
If you do decide to purchase Ground-Based Sparkling Devices and set them off on your own, be sure to follow these important safety tips:
- Do not let children under 16 years old use Ground-Based Sparkling Devices.
· Only purchase ground-based sparkling devices that are approved in the State of Maryland. The list of approved devices can be found at www.frederickcountymd.gov/fm
- Only buy from reliable fireworks sellers; read and follow all the warnings and instructions.
- Use fireworks outdoors only; keep them away from houses and flammable materials.
- Have a bucket of water nearby.
· Do NOT try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in water and throw them away.
- Be sure other people are a safe distance away before lighting fireworks.
- Never ignite fireworks in a container -- especially glass or metal.
- Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
- Do not wear loose clothing near a fire or while using fireworks.
· Sparklers need to be handled carefully too: they burn at more than 1000 degrees F.
Light them one at a time at arm's length. Always wear gloves while holding a sparkler, and never give one to a child under 5 years of age.
Light them one at a time at arm's length. Always wear gloves while holding a sparkler, and never give one to a child under 5 years of age.
· Educate children (of all ages) about the dangers of fireworks and teach them to practice safety at all times.
Take extra precautions this Fourth of July and your holiday will be a blast!
Celebrate this season safely and wisely.
