Fireworks safety stressed this Fourth

By Staff
Slade Gilmer
With the Fouth of July just three days away, several local residents will be shooting off fireworks in celebration of our nation's independence.
However, according to the National Council on Fireworks Safety, there were 9,800 fireworks related injuries or fatalities in 2007 alone, which makes safety a very important issue when dealing with fireworks.
According to Russellville Fire Marshal Bobby Malone, Russellville has been fortunate to not have any serious injuries with fireworks.
"As far as I can remember, we haven't had any major injuries with fireworks," Malone said. "The summer before last, we had several small fires, but none of those led to injuries that I know of."
While there is a city ordinance against shooting fireworks in Red Bay, police chief Pat Creel says the police department uses common sense during the Fourth of July holiday.
"We're pretty lenient about it," Creel said. "As far as I know, there have never been any citations since I've been here."
Creel added that he asks people to follow manufacturer warnings and instructions while shooting fireworks.
With the heat and lack of rainfall in recent weeks, many speculate that setting off fireworks could be hazardous. Malone agrees that some rainfall would make shooting fireworks much safer.
"If we get rain, that will definitely help things," Malone said. "If it doesn't, though, you have to be careful."
Malone recommends being at least 600 feet from any object or person before shooting any fireworks.
"If you're going to shoot them, try to avoid tall grass," Malone added. "Also, try and shoot them over water."
Malone also added that the Russellville Fire Department recommends having a bucket of water around at all times while shooting fireworks.
"We recommend that for two reasons," Malone said. "First, if you have a dud, you can immerse it in water to prevent it from accidentally going off. Also, in case you do have a small fire, you can put it out before it gets out of control."
In addition to potential safety hazards, any damage caused by fireworks are the responsibility of the person who shot them.
"One of the big things about fireworks is that you are responsible for a fire," Malone said. "If it gets out of control and burns down a shed or a house, you could be held liable."
Malone added that with the Independence Day shows being held at McFarland Park in Florence and at Sloss Lake in Russellville, it may be a good idea to watch and enjoy the fireworks.
"We also recommend watching a professional set them off, like at (McFarland Park) or at Sloss Lake," Malone said. "You save money, you're much safer and there's always one of us on hand to prevent a fire."
For Creel, another important thing to remember when shooting fireworks is to remember other people while shooting.
"We ask that people be conscious of their neighbors," Creel said. "Everybody likes a little fireworks, but nobody wants to be annoyed by them."