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Many Alabama Fireworks Illegal In Florida, Other Safety Tips
July 4, 2008
In order to make this Fourth of July a safe holiday for all, Escambia County Fire Rescue offers the following safety tips:
• Observe local laws.
• The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks.
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Parents should pay special attention to older children using sparklers and remember that sparklers can easily ignite clothing. Children should not touch the lit portion of sparklers, throw them or play games with them. Sparklers can be dangerous, if used improperly.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. Never shoot a firework at or near another person.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. Douse and soak them for at least 15 minutes with water and throw them away.
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.
• Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
• Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, in 2005, fireworks caused an estimated 1,800 structure fires and 700 vehicle fires. In 2006, an estimated 9,200 people were treated for firework related injuries, with 49 percent of the injuries were to the extremities and 46 percent to the head.
For a complete list of all approved consumer fireworks by the state fire marshal visit http://fldfs.com/sfm/pdf/Sparklers2007.pdf.
For additional information, please contact Escambia County Fire Rescue at 475-5530.
Pictured above: Many people in North Escambia purchase fireworks at stands in Alabama, like this one in Flomaton. Many of the fireworks availabe at fireworks retailers in Alabama are actually illegal in Florida. NorthEscambia.com photo.
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