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Use Caution Around Fireworks |
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Firefighters Urge Caution Near Fireworks on Independence Day
Lake County, FL - Independence Day, unfortunately, is one of the busiest days of the year for firefighters. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year, and two out of five are fireworks-related incidents.
Your Lake County firefighter’s recommend that the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional show. “Consumer fireworks are dangerous and the risks to personal safety and the safety of the community are significant,” says Lt. Brian Gamble, Vice President of the Professional Firefighters of Lake County.
Fireworks were involved in an estimated 11,400 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments during calendar year 2013, according to U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks, cookouts and community events can quickly turn to disaster if proper precautions are not taken.
Children are especially at risk on July 4. In 2013, 40 percent of victims with fireworks injuries were under 15. Children should never play with fireworks. Even sparklers can reach 1200º Fahrenheit.
“Fireworks are allowed in Lake County. Legal or not, if you decide to ignore these words of caution and set off your own fireworks display, precautions need to be taken, and taken seriously,” Gamble said. “While pretty, fireworks can be very, very dangerous.”
Please only call 9-1-1 for potentially life-threatening situations so fire fighters are available to respond quickly when lives are in danger.
For more information about fireworks safety, visit http://www.nfpa.org/fireworks.
July 4 Public Safety Checklist
If you insist on setting off your own fireworks, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends taking these precautions. Your Lake County firefighters want you and your family to be safe on the Fourth.
- Only buy fireworks from a licensed seller (not from someone on the street or from someone’s house)
- Read and follow the directions on the fireworks before lighting them
- Have water handy in case of an emergency
- Only use fireworks in an open, outdoor area
- Light the fireworks on a hard surface and be cautious of any wind
- Have a designated person to set off the fireworks who avoids alcohol and does not wear loose clothing
- Make sure that the designated person wears safety goggles and close toed shoes
- Do not alter or combine fireworks
- Aim the firework away from houses, dry leaves, flammable materials and people
- Never extend a body part over the devise
- Light one firework at a time
- Never relight a “dud” firework
- Wait 20 minutes after setting off the firework to approach it, and then soak it in water
Remember, the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional show. Some shows in Lake County include:
Independence Day 2015 Events
July 3rd Freedom on the Waterfront
Elizabeth Evans Park, Mount Dora
Celebrate our Independence on July 3 with the City of Mount Dora and Wolf Country 103.1 FM featuring with "Lake County's Most Creative" fireworks display, kids' activities, live music and vendors.
July 4th Leesburg 4th of July Celebration
Venetian Gardens, Leesburg
Join us for a fun filled evening of live entertainment, traditional Fourth of July food, kids games and baseball while watching Lake County's most spectacular fireworks.
July 4th Tavares Independence Day Celebration
Wooton Park, Tavares
Come celebrate the American Dream. Events, activities and entertainment in Wooton Park from 3- 9:30 p.m. Parade on Main Street at 5 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m.
July 4th 4th of July Red, White & Boom
Waterfront Park, Clermont
Come down to Waterfront Park and celebrate your patriotism at the 4th of July Red, White & Boom. Enjoy free admission, family activities, live music, food, and a spectacular fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. Don't miss out on this great event!
July 4th Eustis Fourth of July Celebration
Ferran Park, Eustis
Live Entertainment featuring the Jeff Howell Blues Band, Jerico and the Smokin' Torpedoes. A free "Kids Zone" with a slide, bounce house, face painting, balloon animals, sailboat rides, free open swim at the pool and more! Fireworks at 9:30pm.
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