(Red Oak) Each Fourth of July, thousands of people, often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks-devasting burns, other injuries, fires, and even death.
Red Oak Fire Chief John Bruce advises consumers to ignite the fireworks according to the directions, stay away from buildings and combustibles, and have a fire extinguisher, garden hose, or a bucket of water.
Chief Bruce advises consumers to check with the city clerk or law enforcement to determine what ordinance is in place for their respective communities.
When purchasing fireworks, it is often a sign that a firework is not for consumer use if packaged in brown paper. Only buy a device labeled as a consumer firework marked with “UNO336” or “UNO33.”