State Fire Marshal Offers Fireworks Safety Tips

Fireworks during the Fourth of July are as American as apple-pie, but according to the National Fire Protection Association, two out of five fires reported that day are started by fireworks, more than from any other cause.  

New Hampshire State Fire Marshal J. William Degnan and the New Hampshire Association of Fire Chief's President and New London Fire Chief Jason Lyon, warn residents that the use of consumer fireworks should be done with extreme vigilance and responsibility.  

"Fireworks are dangerous and unpredictable", says Degnan. "The few seconds of pleasure that firework displays may bring to family and friends are not worth the risk of permanent scarring, loss of vision and hearing, dismemberment or even death."

Wooded areas, homes, and even automobiles have become engulfed in flames because of fireworks.  

Lyon says, "A substantial portion of structure fire property loss is due to fireworks typically involving rockets.  These rockets can land on rooftops and still retain enough heat to cause a fire."  

Lyon also warns that, "Sparklers burn at a temperature of more 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.  To put this into perspective, water boils at 212°F and glass melts at 900°F. Please keep them out of the hands of small children."

Degnan recommends that public displays conducted by trained professionals are the safest way to enjoy fireworks. 

Check out this map of where you can find fireworks displays around Southern New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island (if you'll be traveling during the holiday weekend.)

However, should you decide to use consumer fireworks, Degnan  encourages you to use them with extreme caution.

• Check your local fire department to make sure that fireworks are permitted in your community.

• Always follow the specific directions for each item.

• Be sure to have an extinguishing device readily accessible i.e. water hose, bucket of water, fire extinguisher.

• Stay the recommended distance away from buildings and viewers and avoid areas with dry brush, grass or debris; flying sparks easily ignite them.

• Light one item at a time and never inside an enclosed container.

• NEVER attempt to relight a firework or a non-functioning firework.

• NEVER allow children to handle fireworks or to pick up leftover fireworks debris off the ground.

For more information please refer to the safety information brochures on the State of New Hampshire website.