Harrison County Fire Department offering firework safety tips

It’s almost time to celebrate the start of 2022, but before we light up the night sky, the Harrison County Fire Department is offering firework safety tips.

Fire Chief Pat Sullivan says you have to know the do’s and do nots of the fireworks you’re handling. If you’re unsure, he suggests asking the people selling the fireworks before buying them.

Never let kids handle fireworks alone.

Keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby in case of an emergency.

In the case of a severe injury, Sullivan says to seek emergency care immediately. For minor burns, he recommends running it under cold water, wrapping it, and keeping it clean.

Sullivan also asks that anyone shooting fireworks keep their distance from people, homes, and areas that could easily catch fire. “Every year we have people who set the woods on fire or the brush on fire because of where they are firing the fireworks. So, pick an area that’s not going to catch anything on fire. Make sure you know how the fireworks operate. Make sure if they shoot out, stay away from the homes. Make sure you don’t get on the roofs. We’ve had fires where fireworks have landed on the roof and caught the house on fire.”

As a courtesy, Chief Sullivan suggests letting your neighbors know when and where you’ll be shooting off fireworks, especially if they have a dog who is easily spooked by the celebrations.