Fire Officials Encourage Firework Safety

Each year thousands of Americans end up in emergency rooms due to firework-related injuries.

Friday, July 3rd 2015, 5:06 pm

By: News 9


By now you have probably heard a few pops and bangs from fireworks. You can expect that to continue through the July 4th weekend. And each year thousands of Americans end up in emergency rooms due to firework-related injuries.

Nothing says Fourth of July more than the big bang that comes from a firework.  But, if you're not careful your celebrations can turn dangerous.

Saturday will be one of the busiest nights of the year for the Oklahoma City Fire Department.  Chief Benny Fulkerson estimates two of five fires on the Fourth of July are caused by fireworks.

“Each year on the Fourth of July, hospital emergency rooms across our nation receive thousands of injuries. Most of the injuries are to the extremities. So to the hands and your arms,” said Chief Fulkerson.

Most of those injuries happen to children under the age of 14.

Even though sparklers are a backyard barbecue staple, you shouldn't let your guard down around them. Fulkerson said temperatures get up to 1,200 degrees and could cause third degree burns.

“There always is a risk and that goes back to some of the safety precautions we discussed earlier, having your fire extinguishers and a bucket of water ready,” said Joshua McNutt, a fireworks vendor.

McNutt, a former military man, knows there's a way to have fun and be safe on this holiday weekend and still use fireworks.

“You want to make sure that you are away and clear from tall obstructions, stay away from buildings, houses, power lines things of that matter. You want an open field, open area,” said McNutt.

Fireworks are illegal in Oklahoma City limits. If you're caught you will be ticketed.

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