KGUN 9News

Actions

Firefighters reminding Arizonans about the importance of fireworks safety

Firefighters reminding Arizonans about the importance of fireworks safety
Posted at 4:45 AM, Jun 23, 2017
and last updated 2017-06-23 08:36:43-04

They sure are fun to look at but as you know, they can be dangerous.

The CDC says during the month around the 4th of July, about 230 people a day end up in the emergency room with an injury from fireworks.

There's also the threat of starting a fire.

Firefighters with Rural Metro showed ABC15 how quickly a few sparks can start a brush fire. Our recent record-breaking temperatures aren't helping the threat either.

"If it's 120 during the day and wood burns at 190 to 250 degrees, it's already 120...so it's not taking a whole lot more to actually start a fire," says Shawn Gilleland with Rural Metro Fire.

Most cities allow the cylinder, cone and square fountains in Arizona.

Sparklers and smoke bombs are also allowed but anything that goes up into the air isn't legal.

If you're caught, you could face up to a $1,000 fine. Rural Metro says to play it safe, see a professional show.

"Many town are hosting free ones for the public so enjoy those," says Gilleland.