The article on this page is taken from the Vermont Division of Fire Safety's July 2007 newsletter.
Fireworks safety
Over the summer, families across Vermont will be celebrating with picnics, outings to the beach, and neighborhood barbeques. Above all, fireworks displays will be the highlight of Fourth of July festivities.
Many parents and caregivers overestimate children's ability to handle sparklers and fireworks, creating a dangerous environment for everyone involved. Fireworks-related injuries usually involve the hands and fingers, eyes or head, and can sometimes result in amputations, blinding, or even death.
All Vermonters need to set a good example for children and leave the fireworks to the professionals. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch them at a community celebration where the display is supervised by local fire departments and conducted by licensed professionals.
Because of the danger of these products, the possession and use of fireworks in Vermont is illegal unless they are part of a permitted public display. Illegal fireworks include bottle rockets, Roman candles, rockets with sticks, mines and shells, missle-type rockets, revolving wheels, fountains, and firecrackers. It is also illegal to transport fireworks into Vermont, even if they were purchased legally elsewhere. Illegal fireworks can be confiscated on the spot by officials.
Sparklers and other smoke novelties are legal for sale and use in Vermont. However, even sparklers and smoke devices can be harmful if not used properly. Not only do sparklers burn at 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, but they also encourage the use of matches and lighters by young children. Sparklers should never been treated as toys and close adult supervision should always be provided.
The Division of Fire Safety continues to promote public awareness on the appropriate use of sparklers and novelty sparkling items, and the risks associated with illegal fireworks that are prohibited for sale and use.
The division also acts as a resource to assist fire departments. Our new Web site at www.vtfiresafety.org includes a section on fireworks and sparklers. The section includes a sample fireworks display permit and a checklist for a public fireworks display and additional information from NFPA 1123.
NFPA 1123 is the adopted code for fireworks displays and contains complete information on the qualifications of operators, the selection of display areas, discharge and fall-out areas, site security and crowd control, and the operation of the fireworks display.
All of us at the Division of Fire Safety and all of Vermont's emergency services want all Vermonters to keep their Fourth of July festivities enjoyable and safe. We need to let people know to leave the shows to the pros.
