CLAREMONT, NH – 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.
IAFF Local 1571 advises that the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional show. “Consumer fireworks are dangerous and the risks to personal safety and the safety of the community are significant,” said James Chamberlain, President of Local-1571.
According to a 2015 report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were involved in an estimated 10,500 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments annually. 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. Of those injured, 35 percent of victims with fireworks injuries were under 15. Children should never play with fireworks. Even sparklers can reach 1200º Fahrenheit.
“Fireworks are not legal in Claremont. Legal or not, if you decide to ignore these words of caution and set off your own fireworks display, precautions need to be taken, and taken seriously,” Scott Kenniston said. “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, please notify the Claremont Police Department at, 603-542-9538.
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.
Local 1571 July 4 Public Safety Checklist:
If you insist on setting off your own fireworks, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends taking these precautions. Local-1571 wants you and your family to be safe on the Fourth.
Remember, the best way to enjoy fireworks and prevent injury is to watch a professional show. The city of Claremont will be hosting fireworks at Monadnock Park on Monday, July 4th at dusk.
Prof. Firefighters of Claremont, Local 1571, wishes you a safe and joyous Independence Day.
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