On December 19th the Phoenix Fire Department along with various local community partners hosted it’s annual Christmas Tree and New Years Fireworks safety event. The event, held at the Phoenix fire training academy aimed to educate the public on the dangers of using water to extinguish stove top grease fires in the kitchen, as well as the flammability of dry live Christmas trees in the home this time of year.
Phoenix Police department was also part of the event sharing information about the use of legal fireworks. Legal fireworks go on sale December 10th through January 3rd and are able to be used December 26th through January 4th. City ordinances prohibit use all days the use of permissible consumer fireworks between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., except:
(i) Between the hours of 11:00 p.m. on December 31 of each year through 1:00 a.m. on January 1 of each year.
(ii) Between the hours of 11:00 p.m. on July 4 of each year through 1:00 a.m. on July 5 of each year.
The event also featured a live demonstration showing the potential physical harm that can come from improper firework use. While also reminding the public of four major safety tips.
Keep Spectators at a safe distance:
The four major safety tips include:
• Keep spectators at a safe distance : Data shows fireworks related injuries where Phoenix Fire responded to treat a patient were a result of someone standing too close or being hit with a firework as it went off.
• Choose a safe location : Data shows that fire calls where it was noted fireworks were a potential ignition source also noted the area was dry or sparks traveled away from the original area and ignited grass, brush, debris, buildings, etc. Additionaly illegal aerial fireworks are typically associated to tree fires, which can spread to other trees, properties, and structures.
• Dispose of fireworks properly : Fire investigations and other calls for service during times when fireworks sales are permitted are most likely the result of careless discarding of fireworks in dumpsters, especially those city dumpsters that are kept near the house or in the garage. When the fireworks re-ignite and the dumpster is on fire, it could extend to the garage and residential structure. It is important to soak them for at least 24-hours prior to putting them in the trash can. Even then it is important to not have the trash can against the house, in the garage, or near dry brush that would allow a fire to extend.
• Secure your pets- : Not only do they get spooked by fireworks and run away from your property, but there have been several instances where dogs have bitten people while the fireworks were going off.
The Phoenix Fire Department and all of our community partners want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.
