Only YOU Can Prevent Fourth of July Fires

    

     It’s that time of the year again! Every Fourth of July people gather with family and friends to celebrate the day of our country’s independence. This holiday usually consist of barbeques, fireworks and a few cold ones by the pool. While distracted by the fun, often time people fail to see the dangers that may arise when fire is involved.
     According to the Green Bay Fire Department, more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year. If one does not take the proper precautions, it is very easy for a great evening to go wrong. Before hosting a Fourth of July event at your home, make sure that you fulfill each task that is recommended by the experts in the City of Las Vegas. These tasks include:
     1. Cleaning your yard: Make sure that weeds are pulled and grass is cut and watered.
     2. Take off all dead palm tree fronds. It is known that these burn fast and can spread the fire through wide areas.
      3. Always be ready with the hose and/or bucket of water, just in case any small fire breaks out, this can prevent them from spreading and getting larger.
     4. Keep all pets inside throughout the evening.
     5. Keep all cars and trucks in the garage or safely from the area where fireworks are being lit.

     Fireworks can also cause harm to people if not used properly. Each year thousands of people are injured while using consumer fireworks. A majority of these injuries happen on the hand or head of victims. While several fire departments report that 10-14 year olds have a higher risk of being injured on this day, everyone should take the time to practice the tips that firefighters encourage firework users to follow.
     1. Fireworks should be only be used on a flat, firm surface such as the ground or a driveway. They are illegal on street or sidewalks.
     2. Stay away from cars, lawns or anything else that may easily catch fire.
     3. Always have an adult present when fireworks are being used.
     4. Young children should not be lighting fireworks.
     5. After the firework has been used, one should pick up the remains with a shovel, dropped into a bucket of water and left to soak for several hours before being thrown in the trash. The same measures should take place when there is a “dud.” Do not try to relight any fireworks that were not originally able to function properly.
     6. Fireworks should never be used inside a house/building.
     7. Do not ignite fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Before partying all afternoon and sitting in front of a beautiful firework show, please take the time to BE SAFE on Fourth of July!

Firework Safety
Firework Statistics