DES MOINES, Iowa — With anecdotal information circulating on increased sales and use of consumer fireworks, as well as the reduced number of community Independence Day celebrations and fireworks shows, State Fire Marshal Dan Wood is advising Iowans to take extra safety measures over this long holiday weekend.
“We understand the desire to fully embrace the July Fourth holiday and find fun and creative ways to celebrate and let loose after a difficult spring,” said Wood. “If you choose to do this with fireworks, there are some very important safety measures you should take.”
Nationally, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports about 10,000 fireworks injuries nationally. Iowa has experienced a particularly dramatic rise in injuries since the Iowa legislature legalized the sale of fireworks in Iowa in 2017. Injuries doubled in the first year, according to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
The Iowa Department of Public Health reported 143 emergency department visits for fireworks-related injuries in 2018. It’s important to note that roughly 46% of those who are treated in Iowa emergency departments are between the ages of 15-34. This is clearly a higher-risk age group.
As part of its education and outreach efforts, the State Fire Marshal Division is encouraging Iowans to visit the office’s website The4thRules.com, where they can find a host of fireworks safety tips, including:
- Refrain from drinking alcohol before and while discharging fireworks
- Keep spectators at least six feet away from lit fireworks
- Always supervise children near or handling fireworks. Even simple products like fireworks can be dangerous – burning at up to 2,000 degrees
- Keep a water source handy to douse “duds” or in case of emergency.
In addition to safety measures, it’s important to make sure you’re discharging fireworks legally:
- Always purchase from a licensed vendor. You can find these listed at The4thRules.com as well
- Children 18 and younger cannot legally purchase fireworks
- Be sure you’re purchasing and discharging consumer fireworks. If you check the label anything marked 1.3G or below is for professional use only
- Check local city or county ordinances. Some communities have increased restrictions on if and when you can shoot consumer fireworks.
The State Fire Marshal Division wishes all Iowans a safe July Fourth holiday.
