Explosive display encourages fireworks safety

Fireworks go on sale this weekend, and the fire department is doing its part to ensure safety — by detonating watermelons.

July 4 is the busiest day of the year for firefighters because of many garage and trash fires, officials said.

This year, the weather brings an additional hazard, stressed Dennis Bergquist, a fire prevention inspector.

“The hotter it gets, the easier it is for shrubbery to start on fire,” he said.

Lighting fireworks on a flat, firm area without any vehicles or grass nearby is critical to safety, he added.

The Las Vegas Fire Department devotes time each year to promoting safe, and legal, use of fireworks for the holiday weekend.

Approved fireworks with the Safe-N-Sane logo go on sale at midnight Friday at more than 120 booths in the city, said Tim Szymanski, public education and information officer for the Las Vegas Fire Department.

To emphasize the danger of irresponsibly lit fireworks, the department’s bomb squad plugged fireworklike material into a cantaloupe and watermelon and detonated them.

Pieces of the exploded fruits flew more than 40 feet.

At the fireworks safety event, Szymanski also stressed the importance of keeping children away from fireworks.

“We teach them all their lives to not touch matches or fire. This week is not the exception,” he said.

Water, adequate space and responsible behavior are all key to a safe fireworks display.

It’s vital to have two sources of water, Szymanski said. A bucket to douse used fireworks and a garden hose are good options.

Used fireworks, thrown away while still hot, cause fires.

A shovel is also important, to scoop up fireworks that do not light. One of the most common injuries connected with Fourth of July is hand burns from trying to re-light duds, Szymanski said.

Stationary fireworks that do not twirl on the ground, fly through the air or explode are permitted in Clark County. Fines for illegal fireworks can be up to $1,000 and six months in jail.

Contact Annalise Porter at aporter@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0264.