Warnings issued for firework injuries, impaired driving this Fourth of July
By Jenna Wilson
Local safety officials are reminding the public to play it safe with fireworks this Independence Day and practice safe driving.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there has been a 25% increase in firework-related injuries during the past 15 years.
In 2021, there were 11,500 injuries treated in emergency rooms and nine deaths involving fireworks in the U.S. Most of the deaths were due to firework misuse, and young adults aged 20 to 24 had the highest rate of injury.
Officials with the St. Joseph Fire Department said it’s not only important to practice safety and use the proper technique when shooting off fireworks but residents also should be mindful of the location chosen to do so.
“Too often, after a firework has been discharged, it is forgotten about,” said Jamey McVicker, assistant fire chief. “Especially in the drier weather, a firework can land in some type of kindling and smolder for hours until it builds enough heat, fuel and air to grow exponentially.”
A few ways to prevent this from happening include having a bucket of water or other extinguishing agent nearby, never assuming that a “dud” is dead, lighting an arm’s length away and never putting your face or an appendage over the top of a firework. Kids also should always have adult supervision when lighting a firework.
“The SJFD wants our citizens to have a safe and wonderful celebration of our country’s independence,” McVicker said. “We just don’t want our citizens to need our services on this wonderful holiday.”
The Fourth of July also brings an increase in impaired driving, leading to fatal crashes over the holiday period. The St. Joseph Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking to stop drivers suspected of being under the influence.
“Have a plan to get a ride home, walk home or stay where you’re at,” said Sgt. James Tonn with the St. Joseph Police Department. “It only takes that one time to ruin your or someone else’s life. We’re going to be out there like we always are, but we’re going to have additional officers out there as well. There will be no breaks on drinking and driving.”
As a reminder, all aerial fireworks are prohibited within the city limits of St. Joseph per city ordinance.
