With Independence Day quickly approaching, Alachua County Fire Rescue would like to remind everyone to be safe when handling fireworks.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, thousands of people each year are injured by fireworks. Most of these injuries are suffered by children and teens. Additionally, more than 18,500 fires are started each year by fireworks. These fires include damage to vehicles and building structures. Fortunately, you can stay safe this Independence Day by following some safety tips.
The best way to stay safe with fireworks is to leave them to professionals by enjoying sponsored events in your area. Please check your local listing for a fireworks show near you.
Before lighting fireworks, ensure they are legal and have not been tampered with. Adults should be in charge of handling them, and children should be under close adult supervision. Fireworks should be lit one by one person, and everyone involved should maintain a far distance after it is lit. Never aim fireworks at others or towards things like homes or vehicles.
The lighting of fireworks should only occur outdoors with a source of water nearby (in case of a fire). Keep the fireworks away from flammable material, and do not light them in a person’s hands. If a firework fails to go off, do not attempt to relight it and extinguish it with water immediately.
For more information, contact Alachua County Fire Rescue Assistant Chief Michael Cowart at 352-562-6550 or
mcowart@alachuacounty.us.