Leave the fireworks to the professionals

Elmont Volunteer Fire Department says enjoy, but don’t risk your safety

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With Independence Day this weekend, the Elmont Fire Department is urging residents to stay safe and leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Although some fireworks may be legal to buy and use, Elmont Fire Department is warning that the possibilities of injury and fire are very real and is recommending that residents take in one of the many of public firework displays instead.

“We are urging our neighbors to be smart and leave the fireworks to the professionals,” said EFD Chief Rob Schriefer “Don’t let an injury or fire ruin your Fourth of July Holiday.  Instead, enjoy one of the local, public fireworks displays available.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), thousands of people are injured while using consumer fireworks every July 4th holiday.  The risk of fireworks injury is two-and-a-half times as high for children ages 10–14 as for the general population.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported for calendar year 2012 the deaths and injuries involving legal and illegal fireworks: six men who were killed by professional-grade, homemade or banned firework devices and an estimated 8,700 consumers treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries. About 1,000 reported injuries involved sparklers and bottle rockets — fireworks that are frequently and incorrectly considered safe for young children. Sixty percent of all fireworks injuries occur during the 30 days surrounding the July 4th holiday.

It’s important to remember how dangerous sparklers can be.  The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns.