LAS VEGAS (FOX5) -
"Safe and Sane" fireworks are now on sale in Clark County and despite the label, firefighters want to remind residents they are still dangerous.
"At 11:59 p.m. on July 4, all types of fireworks, become illegal," said Dean Fletcher, president of the Las Vegas Firefighters Local 1285. "Just watching how out of control the fires are in Colorado gives some understanding how important caution is especially when everything is so dry. No one should lose their home or life playing with fireworks."
Firefighters also want to remind people that any fireworks that fly through the air, explode or rotate on the ground are illegal at all times in Clark County. They can be confiscated, and the person in possession of them can be fined up to $1,000, spend six months in jail, or both.
Firefighters recommend the following when handling fireworks:
- Fireworks should be used on a flat surface, such as the ground or driveway.
- Stay away from bushes, grass, trees, vehicles and anything that might catch fire.
- There should be adult supervision at all times. Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.
- Always have a bucket of water and garden hose available in case a fire starts.
- After fireworks are used, they should be picked up with a shovel and dropped into the bucket of water and allowed to soak for at least an hour before discarding.
- "Duds," fireworks that don't fire after being lit, should never be relighted. Wait 20 minutes and then again pick them up with a shovel and soak them in a bucket of water for several hours before discarding.
- IF a fire is started, use the garden hose to either extinguish the fire or keep it in check until firefights arrive.
- NEVER use fireworks inside a building.
- Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter, and the shooter should wear safety glasses. Also, alcohol and fireworks do not mix; have a "designated shooter."
- Fireworks are not permitted on streets, in parks, on government property, or on school district property at any time.
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