By BRIAN BURRIS
As we all know Fourth of July is quickly approaching.
We can all also look around and see the conditions are perfect for a wildfire as well. The dry brittle grasses in the Moapa Valley area coupled with the high heat, low humidity and often gusty winds can turn one misguided spark into a major fire incident.
Far too often that one misguided spark this time of year comes in the form of fireworks. We all love to see the shimmering showers of color as they burst high in the sky. Unfortunately this far too often comes at a great cost.
The risk of fire and injury are great when it comes to the use of fireworks of all types. However fireworks that are not marked safe and sane increase these risks exponentially. Each year approximately 20,000 fires are started as a result of fireworks use. Each year 9,300 people will be injured and 4 people die due to fireworks related incident. Of those injured 40% will be due to illegal fireworks, 45% will be children under 14, and 400 American’s will lose sight in one or both eyes.
There is good news though; you do not have to be a statistic. If you follow some simple rules you can avoid the devastation countless families have endured.
•Buy only fireworks labeled “Safe and Sane”. These are fireworks that do not leave the ground and do not explode. “Safe and Sane” fireworks can be purchased from any fireworks stand in Clark County. Not only will you be keeping yourself safe buying at the stands but you will also be helping out the non-profit groups running the stands.
• Fireworks should only be used under constant direct adult supervision.
• Never light fireworks in windy conditions.
• Make sure you are in an area clear of any combustible materials (ie. buildings, dry grasses, wood piles).
• Have a water source close by and ready to use. Have a garden hose on and ready to use and a bucket of water to place used fireworks in.
• Use your fireworks as intended. “Safe and Sane” fireworks are only safe if they are used as designed. Never modify your fireworks. If you have a dud firework do not attempt to relight it. Wait 20 minutes then place it into your bucket of water.
• If there is an incident call 911 immediately. As a general rule a fire doubles in size every minute so early intervention is essential however you should never try to battle a fire on your own. Your local firefighters have countless hours of training and the right tools to let them fight the fire in a safe and effective manor.
Fireworks are legal only for specific time frame this year June 28 to July 4 per Clark County regulations. Remember if your fireworks are not marked “Safe and Sane” they are not legal to have in Clark County and you may be subject to fines and/or arrest if caught with them in your possession.
If you want to see the beautiful aerial displays produced by these fireworks there are several shows put on throughout the county run by licensed professionals that you can attend free of charge.
The members of the Moapa Valley Fire District would like to thank the community for all of your support and wish every one a happy Fourth of July.
Brian Burris is a volunteer firefighter serving in the Moapa Fire Prevention District in the Logandale Fire Station #73.