Greenwich Police Offer Tips On Fireworks Safety

GREENWICH, CT — The 4th of July holiday is this week and residents no doubt already have plans in mind for how they will celebrate. While residents are out this week having fun at fireworks displays, the beach or backyard picnics, it is important to remember to stay safe.

In light of this, the Greenwich Police Department and the American Red Cross have offered these tips for enjoying the upcoming holiday:

What is legal in Connecticut?

Sparklers: Defined as a wire or stick coated with pyrotechnic composition that produces a shower of sparks upon ignition.

Fountains: Defined as any cardboard or heavy paper cone or cylindrical tube containing pyrotechnic mixture that upon ignition produces a shower of colored sparks or smoke.

What is illegal in Connecticut?

• Prohibited items include devices that fly or explode, including:
• firecrackers
• skyrockets
• bottle rockets
• roman candles
• any firework containing any explosive or flammable compound

Safety Tips

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.

If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

• Never give fireworks to small children and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.
• Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
• Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
• Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.