Staying safe this Fourth of July

With the Fourth of July celebrations tonight comes extra awareness from emergency services.

News 25 spoke with Harrison County Fire Chief Pat Sullivan to learn how firework celebrations impact his team.

Chief Sullivan says while it is not common to see many firework accidents happening down here along the coast, it is still possible.

He says the most important key in staying safe while using fireworks is to take as many safety precautions you can.

While shooting fireworks, stay a safe distance away from the shot and make sure pets and children are not loose.

Chief Sullivan also says to make sure the firework is completely burned out before disposing of it so it does not catch your trash on fire.

“Fourth of July is always something we’re concerned about,” Harrison County Fire Chief Pay Sullivan said. “What we try to do mainly is to educate the public…to educate everybody of how to use the fireworks, which fireworks are appropriate for which age groups and also ask people to watch their kids; to monitor what their kids are doing.”

Chief Sullivan also recommends talking to your firework salesman about how to properly use and dispose the fireworks you buy if you are unsure.