Fireworks Guide: How to Celebrate Safely

"The Fourth of July means fireworks," says James Marenkovic, Gulfport's Fire Chief. "But given the potential injuries and the extreme risk during this drought, go watch the professionals," he said.

Except for fireworks classified as sparklers, it is illegal to purchase fireworks in the state of Florida. Two loopholes in the law allow purchase. They can be sold to those who need to scare away birds on agricultural lands and to clear a railroad. When you purchase fireworks,  you actually sign a paper stating you won't set them off in Florida, Marenkovic said. That's why you won't find them for sale anywhere within Gulfport city limits, he said.   

He also discussed the dangers inherent in using even those fireworks classified as sparklers. As a paramedic since 1988, he's treated a wide range of injuries from hands to eyes, as well as a variety of burns.

"Very often, people don't anticipate the dangers and don't realize sparklers can be dangerous," Marenkovic said, "Over the years, I've seen some bad injuries and burns and even a gentleman who blew off his hand," he said.

With a rising heat index and extremely dry conditions, sparklers pose a major fire threat, experts say. Marenkovic's message is straightforward.

"Go watch the professionals who are safety trained and whose work is closely monitored by fire professionals," he said.

He also offered safety tips for those who insist on using sparklers.

"Never throw a sparkler, have water, a hose and a bucket nearby. Submerge spent sparklers in the bucket and never re-light a sparkler that didn't go off."

Because sparklers create high heat, Marenkovic discouraged use by children and urged adults to always monitor young people in the area. He urges everyone to watch planned celebrations at the Gulfport Beach.

With recent burn and fireworks ban in counties throughout central Florida, he confirmed local, regional and state officials are keep an eye on the weather.

"At this point, the celebrations will go on as planned, but everyone is closely watching the conditions," he said. 

With wildfires always a possibility, even after Tropical Storm Debby dumped so much rain on the area nearly two weeks ago, there are plenty of reminders about potential hazards, even in urban areas. Instead, you can visit the following places and watch sanctioned fireworks: 

City of Gulfport July 4 Fireworks 

Where: Gulfport Beach, 58th St S & Shore Blvd S, Gulfport, FL 33707

When: Wednesday, July 4, 2012 at 9 p.m.

This article originally appeared in Gulfport Patch in June 2011.