Stay Safe This 4th of July

Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades and fireworks – and with the Fourth of July just around the corner, it’s a good time to check out some fireworks safety tips.

“Fayette County has an amazing schedule of events for the Fourth. There really is something for everyone. We just wanted to remind county residents and visitors of a few things, such as where fireworks can, and can’t be used, and how to keep kids and pets safe,” said Angela Hahn, Fayette County emergency management coordinator and grant specialist. “We’d like everyone to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals, and not to use any fireworks at home.”

Discharging fireworks is banned in all of the incorporated cities of Fayette County and county officials urge safety using them in the unincorporated areas of the County.

“The incorporated cities within the county ban the use of fireworks. It’s also unlawful to shoot fireworks from any public roadways. The best bet is to watch one of the fireworks shows that are going to be held around the County. They are run by professionals and the fire departments are always present,” said Precinct 4 Commissioner Drew Brossmann, who also serves as assistant chief of the Schulenburg Volunteer Fire Department.

“That being said, we know people are going to want to shoot off fireworks, so we ask that you use common sense. Even those sparklers can be dangerous in the hands of children,” he said.

Brossmann added some tips if fireworks are going to be used:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks

• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol

• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear

• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands

• Never light them indoors

• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person

• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting

• Never ignite devices in a container

• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks • Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding

• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire “In the event that you or someone you know is burned, immediately run cool water over the affected area for at least 20 minutes or until trained medical help arrives. Burns are life threatening emergencies and should be taken very seriously, including calling 911 or seeking emergency care at the closest appropriate hospital,” said Fayette County EMS Director Josh Vandever.

“Remember, fireworks can be extremely frightening for pets and other animals. Make sure yours are safe and secure. If you’re not going to be home, make sure your pets are in a safe, escape-proof room or crate and keep horses and livestock in safely fenced areas and as far from the excitement and noise as possible,” Hahn said.

“We want this to be a great Independence Day for everyone in the County. We live in the best county, in the best state, in the best nation. Let’s celebrate our freedoms and honor the brave that keep us free safely,” said County Judge Dan Mueller.