| Independence Day, unfortunately, is one of the busiest days of the year for fire fighters. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than on any other day of the year, and two out of five are fireworks-related incidents.
The Willingboro Fire Department urges holiday revelers to use extreme caution around fireworks. Consumer fireworks are dangerous and the risks to personal safety and the safety of the community are significant.
Fireworks injured 9,600 people in the United States in 2011, according to NFPA. Celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks, cookouts and community events can quickly turn to disaster if proper precautions are not taken.
Children are especially at risk on July 4. In 2011, 26 percent of victims with fireworks injuries were under 15, says NFPA. Children should never play with fireworks. Even sparklers can reach 1200º Fahrenheit.
Fireworks are not legal in New Jersey. If you decide to ignore these words of caution and set off your own fireworks display the possibility of causing harm or damage to persons and property should be taken seriously. While pretty, fireworks can be very, very dangerous.
Please only call 9-1-1 for potentially life-threatening situations so fire fighters are available to respond quickly when lives are in danger.
If you are reporting a noise complaint, there is another number for that. Dial 609-267-8300 for all non-life-threatening situations.
For more information about fireworks safety, visit http://www.nfpa.org/fireworks.
To check the legality of fireworks in your state, visit http://www.usfireworks.biz/legal/legal.htm.
The Willingboro Fire Department wishes you a joyous Independence Day. |
