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Fourth of July Fireworks in Denver 2014

Source: Daniel Petty / Getty

As we celebrate our nation’s independence with parades, family reunions, barbecues and fireworks just be safe. Enjoy the fireworks but know the risks. Some associated risks include fires, severe burns and injuries, and even death.

Did you know that the personal discharging of fireworks is illegal in the Richmond Metro area? If caught, legal action is possible on up to jail time. My suggestion to you beautiful people is to leave the fireworks to the professionals. View 4th of July events and fireworks displays here.

 From the desk of the Richmond Fire Department:

The 4th of July is a holiday that includes fireworks as a central part of the celebration. The Richmond Fire Department hopes you and your family have a safe Independence Day holiday and that you enjoy fireworks safely. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – fires, devastating burns, severe injuries, and even death. Below are statistics and tips of how to enjoy fireworks safely.

  • In 2013, fireworks caused an estimated 15,600 reported fires, including 1,400 total structure fires, 200 vehicle fires, and 14,000 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated 30 civilian injuries and $21 million in direct property damage.
  • In 2014, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 10,500 people for fireworks related injuries; 51% of those injuries were to the extremities and 38% were to the head. These injury estimates were obtained or derived from the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s2014 Fireworks Annual Report by Yongling Tu and Demar Granados.
  • The risk of fireworks injury is highest for young people ages 5-9, followed by children 10-19.
  • More than one-quarter (28%) of fires started by fireworks in 2009-2013 were reported on July 4th. Almost half (47%) of the reported fires on the Fourth of July were started by fireworks.Leave fireworks to the professionals, do not use consumer fireworks.
  • The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained licensed professionals. The City is sponsoring the Dogwood Dell- 4th of July Fireworks at Dark on Monday, July 4.
  • After the firework display, children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over, they may still be active.

As a reminder, fireworks are illegal in the Metro Richmond Area. Illegally discharging fireworks may subject the responsible party to legal action. Violation of the Fire Code is a Class 1 Misdemeanor, subject to penalties of up to $2,500 for each offense and/or up to a year in jail.