Experts offer firework safety tips for summer holiday season
[gtxvideo vid=”LhnY3g3H” playlist=”” pid=”OTSe9U1y” thumb=”http://player.gtxcel.com/thumbs/LhnY3g3H.jpg” vtitle=”Firework Safety PKG”]
LEXINGTON, Tenn. — Safety is on the minds of many local fire departments as fireworks season ramps up in West Tennessee. With business booming, they’re sharing a few tips before you gather your family and friends to put on a big show. “A lot of people think that these are toys. These are not toys,” fireworks vendor Joe Lance said. “Every firework that you get has the potential to hurt you.” Fire officials say when you break out the fireworks this Fourth of July, do so on a hard surface away from houses and buildings, and then light it and get out of the way. “The best place would be somewhere paved or concrete,” Lexington Asst. Fire Chief Chris Chalk said. “Typically you don’t want to get in grassy areas.” And even if there isn’t a bang, never get too close. “By all means don’t go and pick one up,” Chalk said. “Especially if you think it was just a dud, because it may not be a dud.” Although setting fireworks off can be dangerous, Chalk said it’s what you do with them afterward that can cause even bigger problems. “People think the fireworks are out, discard them and then throw them in a trash can,” Chalk said. “The next thing you know the trash can is on fire.” But despite the dangers, officials say it’s all about using common sense and enjoying the show. “I want to go out and I want to see some pretty lights and some nice noise. That’s all I want,” Lance said. In the city of Lexington, fireworks can be set off three days before the Fourth of July up until three days after. If you want to know the ordinance in your area, call your local fire department.
