Stamford Fire Department: Leave The Fireworks To The Professionals!

Press release from the Stamford Fire Department:

Captain Philip Hayes

June 8, 2021

Every year, about 10,000 people are treated for injuries in hospital emergency departments due to the mishandling of live, misfired and waste consumer fireworks. In addition, fires resulting from fireworks cause over $100 million in direct property damage.

Fireworks are not just a fire and injury hazard, people and pets can be greatly impacted by the seemingly never-ending assault on their ears around the holidays.  Please consider your Veteran neighbors who may be suffering from PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) or the neighborhood pets that are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights and strong smells. 

If you have a pet, it is best to leave them safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to soften jarring noises.

Fireworks are ILLEGAL in Connecticut for the general public to use.  They are to be used by professional, licensed professionals ONLY. Sparklers and fountains, which technically are not considered fireworks, are legally sold and may be used by Connecticut residents who are 16 years old or older.

It's important to know that the use of sky lanterns is also prohibited in Connecticut. Sky lanterns, or Kongming Lanterns, are typically small hot air balloons made of paper, with an opening at the bottom, where a small fire burns. The lantern, with the fire still burning, is released and then becomes airborne. The release of burning sky lanterns presents a serious risk of causing unintentional fires and injury. The flaming lantern can travel over long distances and drop onto rooftops, fields, trees, and power lines; making them a significant fire hazard.

FACTS

LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES?

Here are a few suggestions that some parents are trying.

REMEMBER…

Incident Details (if applicable):

Incident Number: Incident Location: Incident Date:

CONTACT INFO:

Public Information Officer, Fire Captain Philip Hayes (203) 977-5600

This press release was produced by the Stamford Fire Department. The views expressed here are the author’s own.