The Phoenix Fire Department, in collaboration with various local organizations, hosted its annual fireworks safety media event today. The event, held at the Phoenix Fire Training Academy, aimed to educate the public on the
dangers of fireworks and the
safe handling of fireworks as the Fourth of July approaches.
The event featured live demonstrations showing the potential dangers of improper firework use.
Firefighters
also
displayed safe methods for lighting fireworks and handling mishaps.
Local partners, including the Phoenix Police Department,
Valleywise
Health
Medical Center
,
Arizona Burn Foundation, and the Arizona Humane Society
participated
in the event. They provided resources and information
regarding
fireworks-related
emergencies, legalities, and
injuries.
Fire safety experts gave presentations on legal firework types in Arizona, safe disposal of used fireworks, and the importance of adult supervision.
The four major safety tips include:
-
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.
Captain
Kimberly Ragsdale of
the Phoenix Fire Department emphasized the importance of public awareness: “Every year, we see injuries that could have been prevented with proper education and precaution. Our goal is to make this Fourth of July safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
The Phoenix Fire Department
advises residents to
attend professional fireworks displays and to follow local laws
regarding
fireworks usage.
The City of Phoenix is excited to bring back the
Fabulous Phoenix 4
th
. The annual event takes place at Steele Indian School Park and will happen
Thursday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.