About two weeks ago, the firework stands opened on every other corner near my home. A day or two after that, my post-9:00 evenings consisted of popping, whistling, and small-scale explosions. "Yep. It's begun," I grumbled.
Now, don't get me wrong. I am completely, 100 percent in love with the Fourth of July. I am 99 percent in love with firework shows (or, at least I was until I had tiny tots who need to sleep in order not to become miniature monsters of meltdown). And on the Fourth, I am all about the colors and excitement of fireworks. I truly, truly am. But where I live, the neighborhood provides about three weeks of firework shows, and I tell ya, by the time the Fourth arrives, I merely heave a big sigh of relief.
Finally, some sleep, I think to myself.
But, as I discovered last year, the loud noise is really the least of my concerns when it comes to fireworks. A few days after celebrating the Fourth, one of the houses in our neighborhood burned down because of fireworks in their trashcan. I'm not going into particulars of how devastating it was for the family (thank goodness no one was hurt), but it made me realize that firework shows can come with a price no one wants to pay.
So, without completely raining on your parade, here are some tips for doing the Fourth safely.
1. Reconsider your personal show. If you live in the Edmond city limits, this is a no brainer. Fireworks are prohibited. The Edmond Liberty Fest will have a spectacular show anyway, so no need to spend hundreds of dollars trying to outdo them. If you do live in an area where fireworks are allowed, just remember that you are taking a risk to yourself and children, as well as to your home. Mike Barnes, Chief of Fire Prevention for Edmond, suggests you donate the money you'd spend on fireworks and enjoy the free show downtown. If you live in the city, you'll avoid a citation, and if not, you'll still enjoy a great show while doing some good.
2. Take precautions. If you are going to shoot them off in a legal area. just remember to take precautions. The National Council on Fireworks Safety provides a quiz to test your knowledge of firework safety. If you have questions, speak to your local fire department. And remember, remember to keep those kiddos away from the fireworks. Don't get caught up in the moment and decide it might be fun for them to light one. The fireworks display is excitement enough.
3. Dispose properly. When I spoke to Chief Barnes about proper disposal, he only gave me one tip: drop your expended fireworks at the fire station. Based on our neighbors' experience last year, I thought it was appropriate. Call the Edmond Fire Department non-emergency line (405-216-7300) and ask to speak with a fire prevention officer. They will direct you where to take your expended fireworks, most likely to the firehouse at 5300 E. Covell in Edmond. Even fireworks soaked in water can become unstable, Barnes said, so don't take any chances.
Here's to a fun (and safe) Fourth!
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