As the Fourth of July approaches, the Phoenix Fire Department, in collaboration with various local organizations, hosted its annual fireworks safety media event at the Phoenix Fire Training Academy. This event aimed to educate the public on the dangers of fireworks and the safe handling practices necessary to prevent injuries and property damage.
Live Demonstrations and Key Safety Messages
The event featured live demonstrations showing the potential dangers of improper firework use. Firefighters provided a stark illustration of what can happen when fireworks are not handled correctly, including a demonstration where a firework exploded in the air, leading to fallout that ignited a fire in a gutter, simulating a potential attic fire scenario requiring immediate evacuation. Another powerful demonstration involved lighting a firework on top of a watermelon, which resulted in a massive explosion of the melon, emphasizing the dangerous force fireworks can exert.
Firefighters also displayed safe methods for lighting fireworks and handling mishaps, reinforcing the importance of these practices. The Arizona Burn Foundation encouraged all children to use glow sticks and noisemakers instead of playing with fireworks or sparklers, highlighting safer alternatives that still allow for festive celebrations.
Community Collaboration for Safety
Local partners, including the Phoenix Police Department, Valleywise Health Medical Center, Arizona Burn Foundation, and the Arizona Humane Society, participated in the event. These organizations provided valuable resources and information regarding fireworks-related emergencies, legalities, and injuries. Fire safety experts gave presentations on legal firework types in Arizona, safe disposal of used fireworks, and the importance of adult supervision to prevent accidents.
Captain Kimberly Ragsdale of the Phoenix Fire Department emphasized the importance of public awareness, stating, “Every year, we see injuries that could have been prevented with proper education and precaution. Our goal is to make this Fourth of July safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
Four Major Safety Tips
The Phoenix Fire Department highlighted four major safety tips to ensure a safe celebration:
- Keep Spectators at a Safe Distance: Many injuries treated by Phoenix Fire are due to spectators standing too close or being hit by fireworks as they go off. Maintaining a safe distance can prevent these incidents.
- Choose a Safe Location: Fireworks can ignite dry areas, grass, brush, debris, and even buildings. Avoid using fireworks near these potential hazards and be aware that illegal aerial fireworks are often associated with tree fires, which can spread quickly.
- Dispose of Fireworks Properly: Careless disposal of fireworks, especially in dumpsters near houses or garages, can lead to fires. Fireworks should be soaked in water for at least 24 hours before being placed in the trash, and trash cans should be kept away from houses and dry brush.
- Secure Your Pets: Fireworks can spook pets, causing them to run away or even bite people out of fear. Keep pets indoors and secure to prevent these occurrences.
Encouragement to Attend Professional Displays
The Phoenix Fire Department advises residents to attend professional fireworks displays and to follow local laws regarding fireworks usage. To celebrate safely, the City of Phoenix is bringing back the Fabulous Phoenix 4th, an annual event at Steele Indian School Park. This event will take place on Thursday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering a safe and spectacular fireworks display for the community to enjoy.
With 10,000 injuries from fireworks reported annually across the United States, the importance of education and precaution cannot be overstated. The Phoenix Fire Department, alongside its community partners, remains committed to ensuring a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July for all residents. By following safety guidelines and attending professional displays, the community can celebrate responsibly and minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
For more information and resources on fireworks safety, visit the Phoenix Fire Department’s website or contact your local fire station.
