State Officials Say Fireworks Are Dangerous

There were 576 fireworks-related injuries and fires reported to the Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office in 2010 by fire departments and hospitals. Of the 576 reports received, there were 414 fires and 162 injuries. The majority of these incidents occur on July 4th. Most incidents were cause by males between the ages of 15-21. The incidents of greatest concern were:

• 18 residential fires totaling $1.4 million in loss, four were caused by illegal devices, one was caused by a legal device and 13 were caused by an unknown type of firework device.

• 414 fires and 162 injuries were caused by devices illegal in the State of Washington to own or possess.

• Eight sparkler bomb incidents included four fires/explosions and four injuries to faces and hands. These devices are considered improvised explosive devices and are illegal in the United States Injuries from one of these devices include, metal puncture wounds with burns from the hot metal, burns and tears to the hands and trauma to the face, chest and legs.

Parents Need to Know: Supervision of kids 14 and under is critical in reducing emergency responses to fireworks incidents. Talk to your kids about fireworks and safety. Set family boundaries, only adults should light fireworks. Store the fireworks in a secure location out of reach and sight of curious children. Personal fireworks require personal responsibility.

Remember the three B’s of fireworks safety:

• Be Prepared – Have water nearby and put pets indoors,

• Be Safe – Only adults should light fireworks, and

• Be Responsible – Clean up fireworks debris.

For more information about fireworks safety, public fireworks displays and the fireworks laws for your area, check the Celebrate Safely website at http://www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/fireworks.htm.