Ft Wayne Times

June 28, 2024 - The American traditions of parades, cookouts, and fireworks help celebrate the summer season, especially the nation's birthday on the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children and adults are injured while using them.

Sparklers can reach 1800 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt gold. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires in 2018, including 1,900 structure fires, 500 car fires, and 17,100 outside and other fires. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's Fireworks Injury Report estimates that in 2023 there were eight fireworks-related deaths and almost 9,700 consumer fireworks-related injuries seen in hospital emergency departments. Of these injuries, an estimated 6,400 were treated during a one-month special study period between June 16 and July 16 of that year. Burns accounted for 42% of the injuries; hands and fingers were involved in 35% of cases. An estimated 22% of injuries affected the head, face, and ears. Teenagers aged 15 to 19 had the second-highest rate of fireworks injury. Sparklers accounted for approximately 700 emergency department-treated injuries with another roughly 800 from firecrackers.

Safety is key to any activity involving fireworks. For your safety as well as that of your loved ones, neighbors, and community members, the Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) suggests enjoying fireworks at professional events. If purchasing fireworks for private use is preferred, FWFD encourages responsible usage along with necessary safety precautions:

- Never let children handle or light any fireworks.

- Always read directions and warning labels on fireworks.

- Be considerate of neighbors and their property.

- Recognize that loud noises may trigger unwanted memories for some individuals.

- Store fireworks in a cool place away from children's reach.

- Wear eye and hand protection while setting off fireworks.

- Use in a clear area with a safe distance from spectators.

- Keep idle fireworks in closed containers to prevent accidental ignition.

- Light only one firework at a time.

- Never hold lit fireworks in your hand or attempt to re-light "dud" items.

- Have fire extinguishing tools nearby such as water supply or buckets.

- Soak used fireworks before proper disposal.

- Adults should clean up after shows to prevent harm from unexploded items.

Additionally:

“Please be courteous with fireworks,” states FWFD regarding noise considerations for pets.

The City of Fort Wayne has designated specific dates and times for consumer firework use: June 29 through July 3rd and July 5th through July9th between the hours of5:00 p.m.to two hours after sunset (11:00 p.m.),and on July4th between10:00a.m.and12:00 midnight.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department encourages everyone to practice fire safety while celebrating the Fourth of July holiday with family and friends.