June 26, 2003

Press Release
To: Newsroom
For Immediate Release
Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Public Information Officer
Phone: 673-6652, cell: 455-2609, page: 675-2137

Practice Fireworks Safety this 4^th

The Shreveport Fire Department offers the following safety tips for those citizens who intent to purchase and use fireworks for the upcoming July 4 holiday celebration . . .

SAFE PRACTICES
Always have adult supervision while using fireworks

Always have a garden hose or water bucket nearby for douse spent or misfired fireworks and/or medical emergencies

Always follow the safety precautions on the fireworks label

Fireworks should be placed on an hard, smooth surface prior to detonation. NEVER light fireworks in your hand

Quickly light only one firework at a time

Always use a "punk" to ignite the fireworks. Punks burn without an open flame and provide a greater, safer distance between your hand and the firework

Have a safe landing zone for aerial fireworks

UNSAFE PRACTICES
Never point or throw fireworks at people

Never place any fireworks in container to ignite

Keep fireworks away from small children

Do not alter or make your own fireworks

Never use fireworks while drinking alcohol

Never use fireworks inside of a vehicle or building

Never ignite aerial fireworks where trees, eaves, wires, etc. may interfere with trajectory into open air space

State law prohibits anyone offering to sell or selling fireworks to any child under the age of fifteen (15). Because of the inherent hazards involved in fireworks, the department stresses that citizens use extreme caution when handling fireworks to ensure a safe and fire-free holiday. For more information about fireworks safety, citizens can check out the department’s web site at shreveportfire.org.

Shreveport residents are allowed to discharge fireworks from the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. from now through July 5.