7/1/16
As many of us gather with our families let us not forget what we are celebrating. We celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, by the Continental Congress declaring that the thirteen American colonies regarded themselves as a new nation, the United States of America, and no longer part of the British Empire.
As part of many of our celebrations; we have barbecues, parades and display fireworks.
To ensure we have a safe and joyous Holiday; please remember these few safety tips when using and handling fireworks:
ALCOHOL AND FIREWORKS DON’T MIX! Save your alcohol for after the show and remember if you participate in the after show have a designated driver ready for your safe trip home.
The best way to protect you and your family is to not use any fireworks at home. Instead, attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
Little arms are too short to hold sparklers, which can heat up to 1,200 degrees. Let your young children use glow sticks instead. They can be just as fun but they don’t burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass.
If children are using fireworks supervised by an adult make sure to closely supervise children around fireworks at all times.
Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass or flammable materials.
Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.
Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it into an unlined metal container away from any building or combustible materials until morning.
Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If severe call 911.
Keeping these few safety tips in mind will ensure a safe and Happy Fourth of July.
Happy Fourth of July!
Allen J Luchini
Fire & EMS Chief
Wild Rose Area Fire District
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