MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – If you’re planning your own fireworks show at home this year, there are some safety tips to keep in mind.
Wisconsin emergency management officials issued a warning as many communities have canceled professional fireworks displays, possibly leading to more people shooting them off at home.
According to the state Department of Health Services, last year, there were 91 emergency room visits due to fireworks-related injuries. Nationally, an average of about 180 people go to emergency rooms in the month around the July 4 holiday, according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.
- Only buy and use legal fireworks that are allowed in your community, and only buy from reliable sellers.
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Even sparklers can be extremely dangerous for kids to handle.
- Adults igniting the fireworks should always wear eye protection and never have any part of their body over a firework.
- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Always have water (a garden hose or a bucket) ready in case of a fire.
- Light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves and flammable materials. Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals.
- Keep your pets indoors to reduce the risk that they will run loose and get injured.
- Be considerate of your neighbors — especially those with pets or young children.
General tips for Independence Day celebrations:
- If you are attending a public gathering, wear a mask. Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
- While you are out celebrating, remember to drink plenty of water. Limit your alcohol use and never get behind the wheel after drinking alcohol.
- If you are traveling, pack an emergency kit in your car with items such as bottled water, snacks, and a cell phone charger. Check 511Wisconsin for traffic-related information using the free mobile app or online at 511wi.gov.
- Never leave a child, disabled person or pet in a parked car — even briefly. Temperatures can become life threatening within minutes. On an 80-degree day the temperature inside a car, even with windows cracked slightly open, can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.
- When cooking outdoors, remember to set up grills away from your home or any structure than can catch fire. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and keep a child-free safe zone around the grill while it’s hot.
- When spending the day outdoors, make sure you know the forecast before you head out. Carry a battery-operated weather radio so you can receive alerts about any severe weather in your area. The FOX 11 Weather App can also alert you to severe weather in your area.
Not all fireworks shows are canceled this year. See which communities are still putting on displays.
