As Mississippians plan to gather in groups to celebrate the start of the new year, State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney is urging people to be responsible when shooting fireworks.
Per a report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 10,000 injuries in 2022 stemmed from an involvement with fireworks. The report indicates that adolescents were most prone to being harmed by fireworks. Youth ages 15-19 had the highest estimated rate of injury followed by children ages 10-14.
“Teach your child not to point or throw fireworks at people, animals, or buildings,” Chaney said. “Show children how to put fireworks in buckets of water and dispose of them properly so as not to start a fire.”
Mississippi’s Fire Marshal’s Office recommends these additional safety tips:
- Observe local laws.
- Those wishing to purchase and use fireworks should first check with their fire protection officials to make sure that local laws are being followed.
- Some municipalities prohibit fireworks from being used within city limits.
- Use common sense
- always read and follow the directions on each firework.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Buy from reliable fireworks sellers.
- Store them in a cool, dry place.
- Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks.
- Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and have a hose ready.
- Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees.
- Light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance.
- Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
- Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks.
- Never give fireworks to small children.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
Any serious injuries or damages that occur while shooting fireworks are encouraged to be reported to local authorities.
