The Knoxville Fire Department is warning the public to be safe on Independence Day, particularly for those who are permitted to light fireworks.
The National Fire Protection Association states that attending a professional display is the only safe method to observe fireworks, and that each year in the US, fireworks result in thousands of injuries. The same source claims that fireworks cause over 19,500 fires per year and that extremities account for half of firework injuries observed in emergency rooms. Despite their seemingly kid-friendly appearance, sparklers can be just as hazardous because they can burn up to 1,200 degrees and are responsible for about 25% of fireworks injuries that end up in emergency rooms.
A change in state law has made it possible to light fireworks on July 3rd and July 4th. Cal Wyman, the fire chief for Knoxville, advises anybody planning to light fireworks to always maintain a safe distance, be mindful of embers that could spread flames, show consideration for your neighbors, and carefully put out sparklers and rockets in water. Additionally, Wyman advises against using fireworks after drinking.
Make use of common sense. On a breezy day, fireworks will go off and scatter embers for several hundred yards, where the wind will take them. Simply pay attention to your surroundings. Attempt to avoid drinking alcohol when shooting off fireworks as this can affect your judgment and you might not make the greatest choices simultaneously.
On Monday’s Let’s Talk Knoxville, Wyman will discuss firework safety in more detail.
