Fire Fighters Urge Caution for Independence Day

Fire Fighters Urge Caution for Independence Day

Bradley Dattilio

SBFD Senior Fire Fighter/Paramedic

Fire Prevention Education Coordinator

Fireworks are synonymous with our celebration of Independence Day. With warm weather and family events, this can be a fun time of year with great memories. The thrill of fireworks can also bring pain, causing thousands of burns and eye injuries each year. On average, 200 people are treated in emergency rooms every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday.

In Vermont All Fireworks (not including Sparklers and other novelty smoke devices) are illegal except for permitted, supervised public fireworks displays.

South Burlington Fire Department Fire Marshal's Office only issues fireworks permits to individuals licensed through the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Sparklers less than 14 inches long with no more than 20 grams of pyrotechnic mixture, and novelty sparkling items like snakes, party poppers, glow worms, smoke devices, string poppers, snappers, or drop pops with no more than 0.25 grains of explosive mixture, that are in compliance with United States Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations, are legal for sale and use in Vermont. However, even sparklers and smoke devices can be harmful if not used properly. 

Before your family celebrates, make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety. The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home. Attend public fireworks displays, and leave the lighting to the professionals. Take extra precautions this Fourth of July and your holiday will be a blast!

The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more than 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year. You can help us prevent fireworks-related injuries and deaths by working with state and local organizations to promote fireworks safety in your community.

Fireworks are dangerous and unpredictable, especially in the hands of amateurs.

•          Kids should never play with or ignite fireworks. If you give kids sparklers, keep them outside and away from the face, clothing and hair.

·       Sparklers can reach 1,800 °F  – hot enough to melt gold.

•     Although local retailers may sell fireworks products, it is important to be aware of the laws specific to the use of fireworks, and their inherent danger.

•     Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby.

•     Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never relight a dud.

•     Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear eye protection and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket – the friction could set them off.

•     Steer clear of others – fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. 

•     Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.

•     Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before discarding them in a trash can.

For more information regarding fireworks use in the City of South Burlington, please contact Station #1 at (802)846-4110.