North Collier Fire Rescue stressing firework safety ahead of July 4th

With the Fourth of July less than a week away, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be hearing lots of fireworks very soon. But, fire officials want to stress the importance of not only a happy but safe Fourth of July.

In Collier County, there are new fireworks guidelines to follow this year. There are only certain days that fireworks are allowed, Fourth of July being one of them.

The time of year where people not only celebrate America but honor those who fought for it is fast approaching. Goerge Mourigs lives in Collier County.

“It’s because of the country. I’m very proud of them if I had a hat, I would be taking my hat off, and I salute them for their bravery,” Mourgis said.

Fireworks have become a tradition for the Fourth of July.  Howard Jordan says he’s happy that people can enjoy each other’s company to watch the fireworks this year.

“It makes me happy that everyone gets to be together to share the fireworks this year,” Jordan said.

And, while sparklers are often a favorite for celebrations, firefighters say they are among the most dangerous, especially for children. The last thing anyone wants to hear while they’re celebrating is about injuries.

Heather Mazurkiewicz is with North Collier Fire Rescue District. “Nationally, about 10k injuries occurs on the Fourth of July they are anywhere usually burns to the hand or the face,” Mazurkiewicz said.

This year, there’s a nationwide shortage of fireworks. That leads North collier Fire to think that more people are putting on their own displays.

“We are hearing a lot from vendors that are selling these fireworks that they are selling out pretty quickly, and that’s somewhat of an indication that people are going to be celebrating more at home and put on their own shows,” Mazurkiewicz said.

If you do plan on holding your own fireworks display, North Colier Fire wants to remind you of a few things:

• Alway sput fireworks on a flat surface and at least six feet away from children
• After use, and after they’ve cooled, place them in a bucket of water and let them soak for about 10 minutes to prevent fires

And, for the kids, remember just how hot fireworks can get.

“A lot of parents feel that sparklers are good for children without realizing those sparklers can get up to 2 thousand degrees that’s how hot they can get,” Mazurkiewicz said. “That’s hot enough to melt metal.”

A safer alternative to sparklers could be glow sticks for kids.

Because of the shortage, don’t wait until the last minute to buy fireworks. They may be harder to come by later this week.