Below, you see Sterling Rescue members on standby duty for a professional fireworks exhibition on July 3, 2023. These professional displays involve large quantities of pyrotechnics and are subject to strict requirements for training, safety, inspection, weather, and having emergency crews like Sterling Rescue on standby duty. The majority of injuries, however, occur in home and neighborhood fireworks displays. Over 10,000 people were treated in emergency rooms and 11 people died from fireworks-related injuries last year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2022 Fireworks Annual Report.

The American Red Cross offers these 5 tips for fireworks safety-

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals. Stay at least 500 feet away from the show. Many states outlaw most fireworks. Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks. If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow these safety steps:

1. Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials. Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
2. Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
3. Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
4. Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight “a dud.”
5. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.

At Sterling Rescue, we love meeting members of our community- but not on emergency calls! Please have a safe and happy 4^th of July and we will see everyone at SterlingFest in October!