Fireworks safety - Celebrating freedom safely, lawfully Published June 28, 2010 5th Security Forces Squadron Police Services and 5th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The Fourth of July is right around the corner and most of us are probably planning a special event of some type, some folks might even be looking forward to setting off their own fireworks display. More than 11,000 people are injured in the United States each year from fireworks. Most injuries are the result of the lack of adult supervision and misuse of the fireworks. If you plan on using fireworks to add to the celebration this year here are some important reminders: · Observe local laws. The sale of fireworks is legal from June 26 until July 5 and they may not be purchased by persons under the age of 12. · Fireworks Permitted on Base Are; Sparklers, fountains, smoke devices, snake and glow worms, trick noisemakers such as party poppers, string poppers or snappers, and toy pistol caps. · Fireworks Specifically Prohibited on Base Are; Explosive or aerial fireworks, roman candles, and rockets or similar devices. If prohibited fireworks are discovered in your possession on the base, the fireworks will be confiscated and you will face administrative/disciplinary actions. · Fireworks are allowed in Ward County but NOT within in the city limits of Minot. If you are caught within city limits with fireworks you will have to appear in court, pay a minimum $150 bond and be fined between $50 to $75. It is also a Class B Misdemeanor. · Use fireworks outdoors only. · Never let children handle or light fireworks. Even sparklers can be dangerous if unsupervised. 16 percent of those injuries involved sparklers. That number increases to 33 percent of the injuries to children, five or younger, when they used sparklers. Those injuries could've been avoided if adults provided adequate supervision. · Never ignite fireworks while holding them. Only light one at a time, and move away quickly. · Make sure there's enough room to ignite fireworks, and keep them away from buildings, vehicles and flammable materials. · Have a full bucket of water handy for emergencies, and douse used sparklers. · People should watch what clothing they wear when using fireworks. Loose clothing can catch fire, and shouldn't be worn while handling fireworks. · Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned. Wait 20 minutes before soaking them with water and throwing them away. · Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter." The transportation and storage of personal fireworks on Minot AFB is prohibited. The fact is there are no safe and sure ways to use fireworks - it's that simple! In 2008, according to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks caused an estimated 22,500 reported fires. These fires resulted in one death, 40 injuries and $42 million in direct property damage. Fireworks, even the smallest of firecrackers, are explosives and very unpredictable. Some have very short fuses and some have hard to light fuses that can suddenly begin a rapid burn. Rockets and cones tend to have no programmed guidance system, making people and buildings unwanted targets. Each year thousands of Americans, many of them children, are victims of fireworks accidents. In 2008, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 7,000 people for fireworks related injuries. These accidents are not minor; they include the loss or disfiguration of fingers, hands, arms, faces, vision, hearing and severe burns. Sparklers, which can burn as hot as 1000 degrees have caused countless tragic injuries to small children since parents assume they are safe for children to use. A base celebration and picnic will begin at 5 p.m. at Bud Ebert Park with games and activities for kids of all ages. Food will be served at 6 p.m. Attendees are asked to leave their pets at home, but encouraged to bring umbrellas and blankets to facilitate the firework show scheduled to begin when it gets dark enough. Minot Air Force Base Fire Department reminds folks that fireworks can be beautiful and they are a part of the holiday but please leave them for the professionals. So sit back and enjoy the show at Bud Ebert Park and have a safe Fourth of July. Remember, in case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.