NEW CANAAN, CT — As the Fourth of July approaches and the state continues to enjoy warm weather, the New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office has provided a list of fireworks safety tips for residents.
According to the town website, the fire marshal's office said it "wishes to make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety" before families celebrate this year.
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The following fireworks safety information was provided by the fire marshal's office:
- Only sparklers and "shower" type fireworks are legal to sell and use in Connecticut. No aerial or exploding type fireworks are permitted to be sold or used in the state. (Go to the Family Fourth – you will see a tremendous professional show!)
- Only persons 16 years and older may use the above fire works.
- Always keep at least 30' away from spectators and structures and strictly follow manufacturer's instructions.
- Make sure you are in a clear, open area with no dried vegetation or other combustibles that can easily ignite.
- Never ignite fireworks while holding them – always have a level, stable surface to set them on.
- Do not lean over a display when igniting.
- Always have a garden hose or bucket of water available.
- If a display fails to discharge (a dud), NEVER look into it or pick it up – let it sit and then dunk it in a pail of water.
- Be extremely careful of sparklers – the metal sticks become red hot and can cause severe burns – have a bucket of water available to dunk them in when they have expired.
- Don't throw used fireworks directly in the trash – keep them in a separate noncombustible container for at least 24 hours or soak them in a bucket of water to make sure there are no hot embers.
- Be mindful of neighbors and their safety.
- Most pets are terrified of fireworks so take necessary precautions to keep them safe.
Residents are asked to contact the New Canaan Fire Marshal's Office at 203-594-3030 with any questions regarding fireworks or any other fire safety questions.