Flint’s Fire Chief Urges Residents to Use Caution when Handling Fireworks

June 29, 2016 (Flint, Mich) – As we approach the July 4th holiday weekend Chief Ray Barton of the Flint Fire Department wants residents to be mindful that improper use of fireworks can turn a celebration into a tragedy. With the dry conditions the city is currently experiencing, Chief Barton wants to stress that point even more and is urging residents who plan to use fireworks to be very careful, and be prepared just in case things don’t go as planned.

“We understand the seriousness of the dry conditions, but at this time the state has not issued a ban to prohibit citizens from lighting fireworks, so we’re asking residents who choose to use fireworks to be as safe as possible,” said Chief Barton.

Officials warn that fireworks should be used with extreme caution.  Older children should be supervised closely, and younger children should not be allowed to play with or light fireworks. Adults and teens who plan to use fireworks should remember these, and the following safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration:

Firework Safety Tips

• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Sparklers considered by many the ideal “safe” firework for the young and burn at very low temperatures however, they can easily ignite clothing.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. Never shoot a firework at or near another person.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. Douse and soak them with water and throw them away.
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.
• Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
• Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.

Officials say the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to take advantage of local firework displays put on by trained professionals. The City of Flint’s firework display will be held Friday, July 1, 2016 at dusk.