Fire Officials Warn of Dangers in Dry Conditions for Fourth of July Celebrations
MADISON COUNTY, Tenn. – As Independence Day approaches, Madison County fire officials are reminding residents that fireworks are not only illegal in Madison County, but are also responsible for starting many fires that result in severe injuries to thousands of people nationwide. Fireworks sales are booming and this year shoppers said they are looking forward to a big display. Madison County Fire Chief, Eric Turner, told WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News that current dry conditions across West Tennessee are not favorable to celebrate the holiday with fireworks this year. Over the past few weeks, firefighters have battled several grass fires sparked in dry areas with low humidity and high winds. “Right now, we are pretty dry,” said Fire Chief Eric Turner of the Madison County Fire Department. “Even though we’ve had some rain, that same day we had a couple of fires later that afternoon. It’s going to take a good slow rain to get the ground moist enough to not be a problem.” In 2011, reports showed fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 fires including 1,200 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires across the country. Those fires resulted in eight deaths, 40 injuries, and $32 million dollars in direct property damage. Also in 2011, U.S hospital emergency rooms treated more than 9,000 people for fireworks related injuries, with 61% percent of those injuries being extremities and 34% percent being head injuries. “If we got some rain, it will help on the grass fires, but it doesn’t help when fireworks get into an attic area or shop area or somewhere with a structure,” said Chief Turner. “Every year we have a problem with somebody shooting fireworks, and it can fall in a gutter, get your leaves on fire, or go in an attic. And next thing we know, we’ve got a house on fire.” Fireworks stands are warning customers to obey warning labels, known to change every year, and take extra precaution under the dry conditions. “They do change sometimes, so even if your used to this type of firework over and over again always read directions,” said Mary Burns, a fireworks sales manager. ” We have known people to get their fingers blown off, have stuff blow up in their hand, and blow up in their face so it does happen.” All common fireworks, also called class C fireworks, are not permitted for sale or use within Madison County limits. Fire officials said if you do plan to celebrate with fireworks for the Fourth of July in a designated area, make sure the ground is cleared of all trash, debris, and leaves. Officials said the smallest spark in a dry area can quickly send an entire field into flames. Make sure fireworks are kept out of the reach of children and shot more than 100 feet or more from structures and wooded areas.
