Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief - Fire Prevention, suggests that everyone seriously consider the tragic consequences that a sudden mishap involving fireworks or a hot sparkler could cause. Physical injuries could last a lifetime.
The Connecticut State Police Fire and Explosion Investigation Unit reports that a number of house fires and grass fires have been attributed to the use of fireworks. Fireworks are a danger to property, as well as to people. If a fire or explosion caused by legal or illegal fireworks causes injuries and/or damage, or poses the risk of either, the person responsible could be charged with a felony criminal offense.
All fireworks are illegal in the State of Connecticut, with the exception of sparklers and fountains. Connecticut state law defines sparklers as non-explosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic mixture.
Fountains are defined as nonexplosive, non-aerial devices that contain less than 100 grams of pyrotechnic for each individual item. If two or more fountains are affixed to the same base, the total quantity of pyrotechnic composition of combined fountains cannot exceed 200 grams. Both sparklers and fountains may be legally used by persons aged 16 and older.
In addition to fireworks, novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are also not legal for private use in Connecticut. These exploding devices are very dangerous and have caused serious injury to those using them or near them.
The City of Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau encourages everyone to consider the following to prevent fire and injury during this holiday season:
§ Treat all fireworks as suitable only for use by trained professionals. Attend public firework displays that are pre-arranged under controlled conditions.
§ Stay back at least 500 feet from professional fireworks displays
§ Avoid use of sparklers which can reach nearly 2,000oF. Children should never hold or be in close proximity to a sparkler. State law requires buyers and users to be 16 years of age or older. However, it should be understood that these devices may be dangerous to persons of any age.
§ If you find fireworks, do not touch them but instead direct authorities to them.
§ Leave any area where amateurs are using fireworks.
Finally, as in every season, have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call “911” for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.
For more information, the public is encouraged to contact the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau, 203-924-1555 or under “Public Safety” at www.cityofshelton.org.
This is a press release from Ted Pisciotta, Assistant Chief-Fire Prevention, Shelton.
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