Guilford Fire Department Offers Fireworks Safety Tips

Information via Guilford Fire Department

GUILFORD, CT — With the Fourth of July approaching, the Guilford Fire Department has offered up fireworks and sparkler safety tips.

Sparklers and fountains are permitted, but other types of fireworks are illegal for consumer use in Connecticut due to their high risk of causing injuries and fires, the GFD said.

Potential dangers include severe injuries, eye injuries, and unpredictable explosions. Structural fires can be ignited, as well as wildfires during dry conditions.

For sparklers, residents should have:

• Supervision: Always supervise children while they are using sparklers. Ensure they hold sparklers away from their body and from others.
• Clear area: Use sparklers in an open area away from buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Proper disposal: After the sparkler has burned out, immerse it in water before discarding it to prevent accidental fires.
• Protective gear: Consider wearing safety glasses to protect your eyes from sparks.
• Non-flammable surfaces: Light sparklers away from grass, wooden decks, and other flammable surfaces.

Fireworks should be left to the professionals, the GFD says.

"The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professional display. Trained professionals know how to handle fireworks safely and are prepared to deal with any emergencies that might arise. These displays are conducted in controlled environments where the risks to people and property are minimized."

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