Fireworks Safety

Independence Day: The time of year that we celebrate our freedom all across our nation and realize this freedom we enjoy is not free. Many have given their lives for the freedom we enjoy daily and this is a perfect time to reflect on this blessing. We are not, however, independent of safety as many celebrate this upcoming holiday. This is not a time to be careless and foolish; especially with the use of fireworks. In 2010, over 8,000 people visited the emergency room across the nation with over 50% of those people under the age of 20 from injuries sustained in fireworks use. To help make sure your fun with fireworks does not result in tragedy, here are some safety tips to help protect you and the ones you love: Keep a bucket of water or garden hose close by in case a fire starts in the area-especially during dry conditions we often see in our community Fireworks are explosives and must be used carefully-never discharge a device towards another person Never put your body OVER the device when lighting or after lighting the fuse Keep flammable and combustible liquids and materials away from the location of the fireworks (such as gasoline or propane tanks) Adults must supervise children at all times-especially during the use of handheld fireworks such as sparklers Fireworks can ignite clothes on fire-keep them away from your body Fireworks can remain very hot even after the device has burnt out Drop all spent fireworks into a bucket of water to make sure they are extinguished Do not pick up a dud firework until at least 20 minutes have past then soak it in water-it could still detonate Avoid homemade fireworks and explosive devices-they kill! Save your alcohol until after the show- fireworks and alcohol dont mix! Obey local laws where you live concerning fireworks Fireworks must only be used outdoors Know your fireworks by reading the label for proper use Protect your eyes when lighting fireworks-use safety glasses if possible Keep a phone close by to call 911 for emergencies Remember, YOU are responsible for any fires or damage from fireworks regardless of where the fire or damage occurs- watch where they fall

Have a great Fourth of July Holiday and stay safe! (Contact Lugoff Fire by email at contact@lugofffire.com) Dennis K. Ray/Fire Chief/Lugoff Fire