The Orange Fire Marshal’s office is reminding residents to exercise caution around fireworks and only use those legal in the state.
“We look forward to the summer weather and holidays that celebrate the opportunity to be outdoors at picnics, barbeques and other events. At many of these gatherings, the use of fireworks, both legal and illegal, is on the rise,” the office said in a release. “When used legally and safely by professionals, fireworks are enjoyable. However, incidents of injuries, such as scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment, fatalities or accidental fires caused by the private use of fireworks are reported each year across the United States. Fireworks are a danger to property, as well as to people and pets. The risk of fireworks injuries are two and a half times higher for children aged 5-14 than for the general public. If a fire or explosion caused by legal or illegal fireworks causes injuries and/or damage, or poses a risk of either, the person responsible may be charged with a felony criminal offense. The National Fire Protection Association is opposed to the consumer use of fireworks including sparklers and firecrackers.”
It’s legal in Connecticut for people 16 and older to possess, sell and use sparklers and fountains. It’s illegal for anyone younger to handle such devices. Sparklers and fountains are defined by the Office of the State Fire Marshal as non-explosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic mixture.
Illegal items include devices known as M-80’s, cherry bombs, bottle rockets, novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that is explosive or aerial such as ground displays or roman candles, as well as anything that emits a flame.
Sparklers account for more than one quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.
The Orange Fire Marshal’s office said in its release to wear protective goggles and gloves when handling a sparkling device.
“Sparklers can reach temperatures of up to 1,800ºF once they are lit and can cause third degree burns and eye injuries as a result of improper use. Do not use any open flame devices when dry ground conditions are present. Be aware of your surroundings. Before igniting a fire, be sure others are a safe distance from the area. Always have a source of extinguishment. A garden hose or fire extinguisher can quickly put out a small fire before it gets out of control, only if it is close by. If children are present, assure that they do not use sparklers or fireworks or pick up any that have been ignited and failed to explode.”
The office recommends calling 911 if there is any type of fire or other emergency.
“Local, state and national fire officials want everyone to enjoy a fire safe summer season. They suggest that you attend a public show put on by experts under controlled settings and regulations,” the release said.
For more information on fireworks or other fire prevention and safety issues, call the Orange Fire Marshal’s Office at 203-891-4711 on Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.