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Safety First When Enjoying Fireworks in Florida

by | Jun 27, 2019 | 4-H Events and Activities, Health and Safety, Healthy Families, Healthy Lifestyles

Use sparklers in an open area and keep pets and small children away. Photo by John Paul Tyrone Fernandez

Sparklers and fireworks have often been a highlight of celebrations throughout the summer months. While enjoying your summer celebrations, it is important to know that Florida has strict firework laws. According to the South Walton Fire District’s July 4th PSA Transcript, under current Florida law, only sparklers approved by the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal are legal to use. A person responsible for illegally setting off fireworks may be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. The State Fire Marshal’s website is home to a list of approved sparklers which you can here.


SAFETY FIRST

While many do not view sparklers as extremely dangerous, they still have the potential to be very dangerous. If you are enjoying approved sparklers at home, use the 5 following tips to help prioritize safety while enjoying the holiday.

  • Use sparklers in an open area and keep pets and small children away
  • Keep a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
  • Do not carry or store sparklers in pockets.
  • Purchase sparklers from a licensed vendor.
  • Use a bucket of water to collect the used sparklers. Sparklers may cause fires if not  thoroughly extinguished.


FIREWORK SHOWS

Consider taking your family to a professional fireworks show this year. Photo by Peter Spencer

4th of July firework shows are exciting for people of all ages to watch.  However, fireworks can be very costly, dangerous to setup and most require special permits in certain settings and conditions.  Consider taking your family to a professional fireworks show in your area.  Make it a family tradition, complete with a family picnic for the evening.  Often times, churches and civic organizations will provide professional firework displays with free food for the entire family, just to keep everyone safe for the evening.

There are numerous professional fireworks shows put on throughout the Florida Panhandle. Click here for a list of firework shows on the 4th of July. Be safe and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather!

Happy Independence Day!

 

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