Buffalo Fire Department Fireworks Safety Tips for July 4th

BUFFALO, N.Y. — As the Fourth of July approaches, Buffalo fire officials are laying out some guidelines on how to safely set off fireworks this holiday season.

It is advisable to keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby when lighting fireworks, use a long-stemmed lighter, create a boundary approximately 12 feet x 12 feet, and designate one or two people who will remain sober and responsible for following directions.

Children and pets should be kept away from anything flammable. If you live in a residential area, near other homes and lawns, the best option is to find an open area to light fireworks.

According to authorities, 911 calls tend to increase on July 4. Most of those calls are attributed to the use of dangerous fireworks.

According to the Buffalo Fire Department, more than 20,000 fires are started and more than 10,000 people are admitted to emergency rooms each year due to the unsafe use of fireworks.

“A lot of times what happens is you have individuals setting off fireworks who don’t know the tricks of the trade, or they may be held by children or intoxicated people, so we end up having an increase in calls,” said Buffalo Fire Department Lt. Rayshad Russell.

If an injury occurs this July 4, authorities say the best thing to do is call 911.