Fourth of July Safety Tips

Enjoy a Fun and a Safe 4th of July

Chief Kim C. Dine and the Frederick Police Department encourage Frederick’s citizens to enjoy a fun and a safe 4th of July celebration.

To be safe, please pay special attention to travel and fireworks.

Historically, Independence Day weekend has recorded high traffic accident fatalities -- and alcohol has had a hand in at least 40% of these fatalities.

Ways to reduce injuries and fatalities caused by traffic accidents include:
· Obey all traffic signs, signals, and speed limits
· Plan plenty of time for travel so you are not rushed
· If traveling long distances, get plenty of rest prior to starting your trip
· Require all passengers to buckle their seatbelts
· Use rest stops and change drivers to avoid fatigue

Following traffic accidents, FIREWORKS cause the most injuries and fatalities during the Fourth of July weekend. More than 40 % of fireworks-related injuries happen to children 15 and younger. Unsupervised children are more likely to be injured. Younger children are especially at risk because they are curious and also lack the physical coordination to handle and/or react to fireworks. Injuries from fireworks usually involve hands and fingers, eyes, head and face, burns, lacerations, and amputations.
In Frederick only ground based sparkling devices, paper wrapped snappers (containing less than .03 grains of explosive), and snakes (ash producing pellets) are legal. The device must have its only fuse on top, be a stationary ground device, and must also display the name of the device, a safety warning, and instructions for proper use. All explosive, flying, or propelled fireworks are illegal.
The sale and/or possession of devices such as M80s, M100s, and silver salutes have been federally banned since 1966 because of the large amounts of illegal explosives they contain. Illegal explosive devices are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injuries.
If you choose to use consumer fireworks this 4th, please remember the following safety suggestions from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:
· A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.
· Never give fireworks to children.
· Always purchase fireworks from reliable sources.
· Follow label directions carefully.
· Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
· Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles.
· Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them in metal or glass containers.
· Light them one at a time, then move back quickly.
· Never experiment with homemade fireworks.
· Observe local laws and use common sense.
· Sparklers, fountains and other items that many states allow for use by consumers are not appropriate when a large crowd is present.
· If attending a community display, leave your own fireworks at home -- there will be plenty of excitement provided by the display.
· Always light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from people, houses and flammables.
· Light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance.
· Do not try to reignite a firework if it has malfunctioned, discard it safely.
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For further information, please contact: Bill Douwes at 301 631-2797