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Fireworks Safety
If residents or visitors choose to use fireworks at home they are encouraged to follow Florida State law and manufacture’s instructions and avoid injury from fireworks this Fourth of July.
Florida State Statute states in part "Fireworks that explode, leave the ground or shoot projectiles are illegal in Florida, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, shells, mortars, Roman candles and M80s just to name a few.” Even sparklers, which are legal, can cause severe burns and other injuries, sparklers can reach temperatures up to 1,800 degrees.
SWFD urges following these safety tips:
- Do not purchase or ignite illegal fireworks (anything that leaves the ground, explodes or shoots projectiles is illegal in Florida).
- Buy fireworks from reliable, licensed sellers with a proven reputation.
- Read and follow label directions, and use fireworks only for their intended purposes.
- Keep a fire extinguisher or water hose handy just in case an emergency arises.
- Light one firework at a time, and never try to re-light a "dud."
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
- Appoint a designated "shooter," never mixing alcohol and fireworks.
- Never shoot fireworks indoors or into metal or glass containers.
- Wear eye protection and gloves when igniting fireworks.
- Ignite sparklers and other legal novelties outdoors on a flat, hard surface in an open area away from grass and other combustibles.
- Never allow children to use sparklers without adult supervision.
- Do not run while using sparklers or other fireworks.
- Soak used fireworks in water for at least 15 minutes before throwing them away.
- Never experiment with or make homemade fireworks.
- Call 911 immediately if someone gets hurt or burned or if a fire erupts.
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fire prevention and life safety