Senator Klausmeier's 4th of July Advice: Don't forget about Fireworks Safety

Dear Editor,

With summer upon us and we head out to the beaches and backyard barbeques, I just want to remind everyone of an issue of great importance: Fireworks Safety. Every year, many people, kids and adults alike, are injured because they used fireworks in an irresponsible manner. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2003 four persons died and an estimated 9,300 were treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in the United States. An estimated 5% of fireworks-related injuries treated in emergency departments required hospitalization. In addition, irresponsible fireworks use also caused approximately 24,200 fires in 1999 that were estimated to have cost $17.2 million in direct property damage.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a display put on by experienced professional pyrotechnic companies. The use of fireworks is illegal in Maryland, unless they are part of a public display; however Maryland fire laws do permit the use of ground-based sparkler devices in Baltimore County. These are stationary devices that emit a shower of sparks several feet into the air. If you are unsure if a device is legal, contact the Maryland State Fire Marshal (http://www.firemarshal.state.md.us/ or 410-653-8980) for a complete list of legal, ground-based sparkler devices. If you plan to use any sparklers, there are some easy rules to follow that will help keep things safe:

Use sparklers only outdoors.

Only persons over 12 years of age should handle sparklers of any type and only persons over 16 years of age can purchase them. Always use sparklers with adult supervision. By keeping sparkers out of the hands of youngsters, we can reduce injury rates.

Do not use sparklers or any similar device in drought conditions. This can easily start a fire.

Only use sparklers as intended. Don’t try to alter them or combine them.

Sparklers and alcohol do not mix. Have a designated "shooter".

When all else fails, use common sense. Respect the fact that these devices must be used with caution.

If you have any questions about fireworks and sparkler safety, or the laws regarding this subject, call the Baltimore County Fire Marshal at 410-887-4880.

One local fireworks display that is always worth going to is the Fullerton Field Fireworks Display. Since 1961 families have gathered in Fullerton on the Fourth of July to celebrate our nation’s birthday. Contrary to popular belief, this event does not receive public funding and is put on by the Allied Community Services Committee, Inc. This year they are in dire need of your support. If you or your organization is interested in helping to preserve this local tradition contact Allied Community Services, c/ o Joe Ferracci, 7110 Willowdale Ave., Baltimore, MD 21206.

Senator Kathy Klausmeier
8th Legislative District-Baltimore County