July 4th Firework Safety

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Practice firework safety this July 4th!

Outdoor barbecues, sparklers, fireworks and good ol’ family time are just some of the activities many Americans will be taking part in for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. It is a time where many families will celebrate our country’s independence and partake in colorful firework displays that will light up the sky and dazzle the eyes of many.

According to the National Safety Council, “fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires” (nsc.org). When it comes to fireworks, Scottsdale residents must heed caution as Arizona law states that “the only legal fireworks are actually firecrackers and ground explosives.” Fireworks being used in a hot and dry desert climate are dangerous as dry brush can easily catch on fire and threaten nearby homes and businesses. Here are some firework safety tips that Arizona residents should exercise this July 4^th holiday.

Firework Safety Tips

• Have a fire extinguisher or water on hand.
• Never use illegal fireworks.
• Supervise children when they are handling fireworks.
• Do not use fireworks if you are impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Do not light fireworks indoors.
• Use fireworks in a safe location that is away from your home and any flammable material.
• Never point or throw lighted fireworks at anyone.
• If a firework is not working, do not attempt trying to relight it.