Celebrate with fireworks safely this Fourth of July

Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue
Published: June 30, 2008

Firework injuries and property damage are serious matters. Fortunately for Prince William County, last year's reports of injuries and property damage were minimal. However, in 2006, a fireworks-related fatality occurred within the county. A Gar-Field Senior High School student was seriously injured and later died from injuries sustained while igniting fireworks and tossing them out of a moving vehicle. The student had positioned the fireworks within his lap, for ease of access and ignition. Tragedy struck when the bundle of fireworks ignited. This is just one of many tragedies that occur, each year, to individuals who handle fireworks. As responsible individuals, we should continue to practice safety measures and being smart when handling fireworks, in essence —"Use legal fireworks safely!"

The Fire Marshals Office, a division of the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue, http://www.pwcgov.org/fire, would like to help you prepare and celebrate Fourth of July safely by suggesting the following safety tips:

• Fireworks should only be used under adult supervision.

• Fireworks should only be used outdoors on a driveway, sidewalk or other fire-resistant surface. Remember, fires are caused by careless handling of fireworks in areas exposed to sparks or live fireworks.

• Never ignite fireworks during high winds where flying sparks can start a fire.

• Keep a bucket of water handy in case sparks start a fire.

• Be sure children around fireworks know to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches on fire.

• Deposit sparklers in a metal container as they may be stepped on while hot or lost in the grass and stepped on while playing.

• Never aim or throw fireworks at another person.

• Never try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction or fail to go off.

• Do not wear loose clothing when using fireworks.

• Never experiment or make your own fireworks.

• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

These are just a few tips to keep you, your loved ones and your property safe during the holiday. Although the County permits the use of some fireworks, restrictions are applied for good reason. Remember, no matter how breathtaking fireworks are or how easy they appear to use, they are potential fire starters. The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries and property damage is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals and enjoy the various fireworks displays scheduled throughout the county and Northern Virginia area. For a list of public fireworks displays, please visit our Web site at http://www.pwcgov.org/fire and click on Fireworks.

This column is provided by the Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue's Community Relations Team.  Send questions or comments to DFR Responding to You, 9250 Lee Ave., Manassas VA 20110 or via e-mail to dfrrespondingtoyou @pwcgov.org.