The EPPD wants to make sure you stay safe while celebrating the 4th of July!

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), last year in the U.S., there were eight deaths from fireworks and 9,700 fireworks injuries. Hands and fingers were the body parts most often injured, followed by the head, face and ears. Teenagers ages 15–19 had the highest rate of injuries; children ages 5–9 had the second highest rate.

The CPSC has these tips to stay safe this Fourth of July:

• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to melt some metals!
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. Soak them with water and throw them away.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Some fireworks are prohibited in Minnesota. Minnesota Statute 624.20 defines fireworks that are illegal in Minnesota and those that are legal. Minnesota Statute 624.21 states that it is “unlawful for any person to offer sale, expose for sale, sell at retail or wholesale, possess, advertise, use or explode any fireworks.” Violation of this statute is a misdemeanor.

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!