Fireworks vendors just outside the City limits will once again begin selling fireworks this weekend. The Springfield Fire Department reminds all citizens that it is illegal to possess, manufacture, store, sell, handle or discharge fireworks within the city limits. While sparklers are legal, remember that even they can be dangerous. Sparklers burn at temperatures of 2,000 degrees and cause thousands of injuries each year. Children should also be educated about the dangers of sparklers and other fireworks. They should be properly supervised and never allowed to play with or ignite fireworks.
In a typical year, more U.S. fires are reported on Independence Day than on any other day, and fireworks account for half of those fires. In addition to fires, fireworks can also cause injuries including serious burn and eye injuries. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, between June 22 and July 22 of 2012, more than 5,000 consumers were treated in hospital emergency rooms due to fireworks-related injuries. More than half of these reported injuries involved burns to the hands, head and face. About 1,000 reported injuries involved sparklers and bottle rockets. Injuries to children under the age of 15 accounted for about 40% of those injuries.
Over the holiday period, the Springfield Fire and Police Departments will enforce the City’s fireworks ordinance. All fireworks will be confiscated and tickets may be issued.
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