Greensburg, Ind. — This week, we celebrate our country’s 241st birthday. This time of year always brings out the patriot in us all, with fervent pride in the country we call home. It has become a tradition to memorialize this holiday with parades, cookouts and fireworks. As we celebrate, let’s remember to put safety first.
It is in our nation’s blood to celebrate Independence Day with pomp and circumstance. Just one year after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia held a massive celebration with the ringing of bells, a dinner, music, and toasts to each state within the union. The day ended with a grand finale of red, white and blue fireworks ignited for each of our nation’s 13 states. Boston also held a fireworks celebration on July 4, 1777, and since this day we have used fireworks as a way to remember the birth of our nation.
With many communities and families hosting Fourth of July celebrations of their own, here are just a few safety reminders as we observe our nation’s birthday.
The first thing to remember is that you must be 18 years of age in order to purchase fireworks. Also, minors must have an adult present when using or possessing fireworks.
When it comes to lighting fireworks, you must either be on your own property, on the property of someone who has given you permission to use fireworks, or at a location designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshall for discharging fireworks.
If you happen to live within a neighborhood, near buildings or trees, please use caution when aiming and setting off your fireworks.
If you plan on setting off fireworks before or after the actual Fourth of July holiday, it can only be done between the hours of 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. There is an exception for Independence Day; however it only extends the time to midnight. It is important to check with local officials, as some town ordinances may be more restrictive.
As a firefighter, I responded to countless fireworks accidents that could have been prevented by taking some simple precautions: wear shoes in the vicinity of fireworks; light off one firework at a time and quickly move away; only use them outdoors and away from buildings, vehicles and trees; never relight a “dud” firework; and always have an adult present when lighting off fireworks. Keep in mind that alcohol and fireworks don’t mix. Let’s also not forget about our pets. Keep animals inside to avoid exposure to the loud booms and pops.
I hope all of you enjoy celebrating the Fourth of July, but keep in the mind the reason why we have our freedom and the countless lives that have been lost since 1776 so that we remain free.
If you have any questions, our local fire and police departments are a good resource. You can also reach out to my office by phone at 317-234-3827 or email [email protected].
