Subject: From the Rutland Town Fire Department
From: <Saved by Windows Internet Explorer 8>
Date: Mon, 25 Jun 2012 15:13:12 -0400

From the Rutland Town Fire Department

By Michael
J. Barron

To
Report
A
Fire
773
-
2565

Non-Emergencies
775
-
0056

There are more than twice as many fires reported on July 4th
than any other day of the year. Forty percent of those fires are fireworks
related. In 2010, an estimated 15,500 reported fires were started by fireworks.
Fireworks related injuries have mostly ranged from 8,300 - 9,800 per year since
1996. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “The safest way to
enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained
professionals.” Vermont Statutes state, “To possess or shoot fireworks in
Vermont you need a permit.” Unfortunately the statistics, the advice, and the
law are all universally ignored. Surely anyone returning from an April vacation
in the Carolinas is well stocked in anticipation of the nation’s birthday.

That being said, let’s be pragmatic and abide by the following firework
safety tips.

· The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display
conducted by trained professionals. (I had to try.)

· Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is
often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that
they could pose a danger to consumers.

· Appoint a responsible adult to be in charge and to supervise all
fireworks activities. Carefully read and follow all instructions on the
package.

· Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Parents
don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn
at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.

· Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when
lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting
fireworks.

· Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not  ignited fully. Stay clear of “duds” for
at least thirty minutes then soak them and discard in a metal container.

· Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

· Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other
mishap.

· Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.

· Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass
containers.

· After fireworks burn out, douse spent devices with plenty of water from
a bucket or hose before discarding to prevent a trash fire.

· Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using.

We are fortunate to be
part of a great nation and should celebrate its foundation and reflect on our
liberty loving forefathers. Let the festivities consist of aromatic barbeques,
children laughing and splashing, family games and yes, safe fireworks displays.
It is possible to put a dent in those statistics and still have a terrific
holiday.

If you have any
questions regarding emergency preparedness, please call your local fire
department. They are always there to assist you.