Fire Officials Warn Madison To Be Cautious With Fireworks On July 4

MADISON, NJ — The Madison Fire Department is reminding all residents to be extra cautious with any Fourth of July fireworks displays this year.

During the pandemic, the Consumer Product Safety Commission found a 50 percent increase in deaths and injuries from fireworks. The injuries occurred as many municipalities canceled public Fourth of July celebrations, prompting some people to celebrate at home, where fireworks can be more dangerous.

Fires have historically been reported on July 4th more than any other day of the year. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks account for two out of every five reported fires on a typical Fourth of July.

Fireworks cause approximately 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and nearly 17,000 other fires each year, resulting in thousands of injuries, police said.

If you intend to set off fireworks this year, keep the following safety precautions in mind:

• Relighting fireworks is not recommended. If a firework fails to ignite after being lit, do not attempt to ignite it again. Prepare a bucket of water. Wait five minutes, then immerse the smoldering firework in water.
• Children must be supervised. Fireworks can be very exciting for children but keep in mind that even safe fireworks, such as sparklers, can be hazardous. Embers on the ground can be dangerous. Make sure your children wear shoes outside.
• Limit the size of home fireworks. Large canned fireworks are not suitable for home use.
• Don’t hold and light a firework. Fireworks can go off before expected and cause severe burns.
• Don’t use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Only adults should light or handle fireworks.
• Location is important. Keep fireworks away from buildings, vehicles, and vegetation.
• Don’t bring pets to a fireworks display, even a small one, and never shoot fireworks near pets.
• If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound of fireworks.

Following safety guidelines can help ensure that the holiday is remembered for the fireworks and fun, rather than for a hospital visit.