Bang: Firework safety critical

  • Published
  • By Courtesy of the 90th Missile Wing safety office
  • 90th Missile Wing safety office
F.E. Warren AFB, Wyo. --  Each year thousands of people are injured celebrating America's birthday. 

Most of these people are injured using fireworks. 

Fireworks are illegal in Cheyenne and at Warren, said John McDougall, Warren Fire Chief. 

"People in Laramie County have to check with the county government," Chief McDougall said. "The county often waits until just before the holiday to declare fireworks legal or illegal based on weather or the dryness of the grass. In a particularly dry year, expect fireworks to be illegal." 

"From 2001 to 2005, at least one person per year was killed in reported fires started by fireworks, while another six people were killed directly by fireworks," said Assistant Chief Greg Chesser. "During a typical year, more fires are reported on the Fourth of July than any other day. And fireworks account for half of those fires, more than any other cause of fires." 

"The problem with fireworks is that they are so much fun," said Mike Woods, 90th Space Wing ground safety manager. "If you want to see a grown man turn into a little boy, hand him a pack of fire crackers. Soon he'll be setting them off behind people to scare them or trying to blow things up." 

People often lose their common sense, or risk management abilities, when it comes to fireworks, Mr. Woods said. 

"If people just remember that they're dealing with an explosive device and apply some simple rules, they'll be okay while still having fun," he added. 

Mr. Woods encourages people to practice safe firework use this year: 

- A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities. 
- Always inspect fireworks for damage before use. 
- Read and follow all instructions carefully.
- Check the area before lighting fireworks to ensure all flammable materials are removed.
- Have a safe landing zone for aerial fireworks.
- Consideration must be given to wind direction and the general ignitability of everything in the landing zone.
- Dispose of fireworks properly by dousing them with water.
- Never attempt to re-light fireworks that did not explode or ones that have misfired. 

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals, Mr. Woods said.