PRESS RELEASE

To: NEWSROOM

For Immediate Release

Contact: Brian A. Crawford, Assistant To The Fire Chief

June 27, 2005 - FIREWORKS CAUSE 23,200 FIRES, $35 MILLION IN DAMAGE AND INJURE 9,300

As the July 4^th holiday quickly approaches, the Shreveport Fire Department would like to issue a caution about the dangers associated with the use of fireworks . . .

According to a new report from the Department of Homeland Security's Federal

Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an estimated 23,200 fireworks’ fires in 2002 caused approximately $35 million in property loss and almost 60 percent of those fires occurred during the month of July around Independence Day. Children under age 15 suffered 45 percent of the 9,300 injuries from fireworks. Firecrackers, sparklers and bottle rockets are the leading contributors to these injuries.

Despite the enjoyment that many in our area derive from fireworks, the bottom line is “fireworks are a dangerous commodity." They account for a large number of preventable fires and injuries. The fire department is not trying to take the fun out of Independence Day celebrations but is warning parents to use extreme caution in assuring that children are properly supervised in the safe handling of legal fireworks."

The safest way to enjoy Fourth of July celebrations is by attending public fireworks displays conducted by professional pyrotechnicians. But if you insist on having your own fireworks, please follow the following safety guidelines:

SHREVEPORT FIRE DEPARTMENT

Fireworks Safety Tips

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 a 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