Leave the Bottle Rockets to the Professionals

Fireworks are nothing to play with. The Forsyth County Fire Department reminds residents to practice safe, responsible use of fireworks while celebrating the nation’s independence on July 4 and throughout the holiday weekend.

All to often, citizens get involved with creating their own fireworks shows in their neighborhoods or area of residence. Not only is this illegal, it’s extremely dangerous and people can be injured. Additionally, the “host” of the show can be held liable if he accidentally injures a bystander or causes damage/fire to a nearby home.

“Burning embers landing on rooftops can cause a house fire, says Corporal Kris Hall with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. “We have also seen firecrackers cause brush fires,” adds Hall.

“It is very strongly recommended to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman says. “The Fire Department encourages our citizens to enjoy a professional fireworks display, rather than attempt to handle fireworks themselves.”

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2010 about 8,600 consumers wound up in hospital emergency rooms as a result of injuries involving legal and illegal fireworks.

“Fireworks are unpredictable and injuries can occur even if a person is following all the safety precautions or is under supervision,” Bowman says. “The best way to avoid injury is to not use fireworks.”

For those who choose to set off fireworks, the Forsyth County Fire Department and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission highly recommend the following safety precautions in addition to a thorough knowledge of the few types of fireworks that are legal for citizens to use in Forsyth County.

• Read and follow all labels, warnings and instructions.

• Always have an adult present and never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.

• Do not allow anyone under the age of 12 to handle sparklers at any time.

• Sparklers burn at temperatures of approximately 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals.

• The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.

• Only use fireworks outdoors.

• Light only one firework at a time.

• Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned (wait at least 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).

• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.

• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

• Never shoot fireworks off in metal or glass containers.

• Stay away from illegal explosives and homemade fireworks.

• Dial 911 for any emergencies.

Stay safe and enjoy your Fourth of July weekend!