We heard from many of you with concerns about fireworks and the ongoing drought. News10 reached out to Michelle Eidam with Metro fire for some answers.
Q: With brown lawns and dry conditions, is it safe to still allow the sale of, and setting off of, fireworks?
A: We appreciate the concern the public has with the use of fireworks during this drought. It is important to understand a number of facts.
- First, with the summer months come dry fuels and high temperatures to this region, even in non-drought years.
- The majority of fireworks-caused fires during this time period are found to have been started by illegal or improperly used fireworks.
- Illegal fireworks explode, leave the ground, or send sparks more than 12 feet high.
- Legal (Safe and Sane) fireworks bear the seal of the State Fire Marshal and will be sold at legitimate fireworks booths.
Improperly-used fireworks also cause fires.
- Fireworks that have been modified or lit by children
- Fireworks lit inside buildings, near flammable materials or dry grass, under a tree or bushes, canopy, covered balcony, or covered patio
Q: How often do legal (Safe & Sane) fireworks start fires? What are firefighters doing to prevent these fires?
A: Confirmed incidence of fires started by properly lit fireworks (Safe & Sane) that are legally available for purchase has been minimal. Local fire agencies have focused on mitigating the causes of fires started by fireworks.
- Enforcing "Zero Tolerance" for illegal fireworks
- Implementing weed abatement programs before fireworks' sales begin to reduce the chances that dry grass and vegetation will cause a fire
- Educating the public on the dangers of improperly used fireworks
Q: Because we are in a drought, what are some things people should do differently this year if they want to enjoy fireworks?
A: We want people to enjoy this Fourth of July, but due to the dry conditions, be
even more mindful than normal. Being aware of certain facts and exercising care is what will help us all keep our communities safe this year. Please be vigilant and follow the guidelines below when lighting Safe & Sane fireworks this year:
- Remember that it is illegal for fireworks to be used by anyone under age 18.
- Light fireworks from the ground, not on elevated surfaces.
- Do not use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
- Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio, or under a tree or bushes.
- Never attempt to relight or "fix" fireworks.
- Dispose of used fireworks in a bucket of water.
- Have a garden hose ready, in case of fire.
