The American traditions of parades, cookouts, and fireworks help us celebrate the summer season, especially our nation’s birthday on the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children and adults are injured while using fireworks.

Did you know sparklers can reach 1,800 Degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to melt gold? The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Fireworks Injury Report estimates that in 2015 approximately 11,900 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks. More than half of the injuries were burns, and most of the injuries involved the hands and fingers; head, face, and ears; eyes; legs and arms. Children and young adults under the age of 15 accounted for more than 26 percent of the estimated injuries. Research also found that males of all ages experienced 61 percent of the estimated injuries.

Safety is always the key to any activity and this includes fireworks. For your safety as well as that of your loved ones, neighbours and the community, the Fort Wayne Fire Department suggests you enjoy your fireworks at a professional event. If you do purchase fireworks for private use, the FWFD encourages you to use them responsibly and take the necessary safety precautions.

Never let children handle, play with, or light any fireworks.

· Always read directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, directions, and warning label, do not light it!

· Please remember to be considerate of your neighbors and their property.

· Please remember that sudden, loud explosive noises, flashes of light and the smell of powder may trigger unwanted memories for some. “Please be courteous with fireworks.”

· Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

· While setting off fireworks wear eye and hand protection to avoid burns.

· Never hold fireworks in your hand to light.

· Eye protection should be worn at all times.

· Use in a clear, open area. Keep the audience a safe distance away from the shooting site.

· Do not alter any fireworks device or make your own fireworks.

· Light only one firework at a time.

· Never attempt to re-light, alter, or fix any "dud" firework item.

· Have a fire extinguisher, water supply, hose, or bucket of water nearby.

· Soak your used fireworks in water before properly disposing of them.

· Please remember to be considerate of your pets, as fireworks can cause them a great deal of stress.

City of Fort Wayne dates and times for the use of consumer fireworks are as follows;

June 29 through July 3 and July 5 through July 9 between the hours of 5:00 p.m. to two hours after sunset (11:00 p.m.) ; July 4th between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight.

The Fort Wayne Fire Department encourages you to practice fire safety as you celebrate the 4th of July holiday with your families and friends.