Firefighters warn about the dangers of fireworks | News

HANOVER, VA (WWBT)- If you plan on setting off fireworks on the 4th of July, listen up! Fire departments are warning residents about the dangers of fireworks.

Every year, thousands of people are thrilled by professional fireworks shows — but every year, thousands are also injured while using consumer fireworks.

Fireworks, for most people, are fun... but they can "ignite" big problems.

"In the wrong hands, they can be devastating — and with the wrong attitude, deadly," said Lt Robbie Haggaman for Richmond Fire and EMS.

With the 4th of July holiday just around the corner, fire officials are reminding non-professionals about the rules when it comes to fireworks.

"In the city of Richmond, they're illegal. They're not allowed in any form or shape."

Consumer fireworks are also illegal in Henrico and Chesterfield.

In Hanover County the, rules regarding fireworks are a bit less stringent. Certain commercial fireworks, like sparklers, are allowed.

"We allow what the state code allows — basically a shower of sparks that emit smoke and things like that," said Chief William Jones with Hanover Fire and EMS. "Nothing that travels through the air, or in the air, and explodes."

By code, you're supposed to have a bucket or a fire extinguisher nearby when lighting-up fireworks.

"It's really a scary holiday. All of our fire marshals will be working on the 4th of July."

Fire officials want folks to know that when it comes to fireworks, things can go wrong in an instant — especially when it comes to children.

Sparklers are popular for younger folks but be warned — sparklers burn at about 1700 degrees. Compare that to a cigarette, which burns at about 1300 degrees.

Fire officials across the area recommend leaving the 4th of July light show to the experts.

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