Shreveport Fire Department offers holiday fireworks safety tips
By: Nancy Cook
Updated: June 29, 2012
Fireworks on the Fourth of July is synonymous with summer fun and celebrating Independence Day but unsafe use of fireworks by amateurs can cause serious injuries resulting emergency room treatment, permanent scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment, severe burns, lifelong disfigurement or even death.
"For those who choose to purchase fireworks from local vendors, firework sales continue through 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 5", said Chief of Fire Prevention Pat Dyas. "It shall be unlawful for any person to discharge, ignite or explode fireworks in the city limits between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m."
Because of the inherent dangers of fireworks, the Shreveport Fire Department offers the following Safety Tips:
NEVER discharge fireworks indoors
NEVER allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks
ALWAYS have adult supervision
NEVER mix alcohol and fireworks use
ALWAYS have water handy (a garden hose or bucket)
NEVER pick up or try to re-ignite a Dud
ALWAYS light fireworks one at a time
NEVER ignite fireworks in any container
NEVER hold a firework in your hand to ignite it
NEVER place an ignited firework on any part of your body
NEVER point or throw fireworks at another person
ALWAYS obey local laws
If possible, attend a public firework display such as "Rockets
Over The Red"
For more information on fire or injury prevention issues contact the Shreveport Fire Department Prevention Division at 673-6740. ###
