What’s the first thing you think of when we say Fourth of July?
Well, if we could actually hear you through the newspaper pages (which is an interactive program we are currently developing, mostly to eavesdrop on your private conversations about the Insider), we anticipate things like holiday, barbecue and parades would be said. But in actuality, the word we were looking for is fireworks. Thanks for playing though, and better luck next time.
We’re kind of surprised that none of you mentioned fireworks, because after all, it’s probably one of the greatest things about the fourth. That and not having to go to work and the whole independence thing. But as great as those loud and colorful creations can be, they can also be a bit on the dangerous side – that is if they’re not handled correctly. And that’s what Concord Fire Chief Dan Andrus is here to help you with. Since many fireworks are legal in New Hampshire, Andrus’s main concern is that people use caution when lighting off those skyward-racing delights, considering approximately 8,600 injuries are caused by fireworks nationally each year.
“Every year there are nasty burns,” Andrus said. “It’s a dangerous thing.”
So we’re here to help get the word out, because the last thing anyone wants is their Fourth of July to end with a trip to the emergency room.
“We’ve had a pretty good run in Concord in terms of not having fireworks injuries,” Andrus said.
Legal vs. Illegal
Since New Hampshire is one of many states that allow the sale and use of consumer fireworks, it’s not uncommon to see an amazing display outside your window on any given day around the Fourth of July, but be advised that not all fireworks are considered legal. Things like roman candles, cylindrical and cone fountains, wheels, ground spinners, parachutes and sparklers (to name a few) are all allowed to be used in N.H. But when it comes to products like bottle and sky rockets, missiles and firecrackers, those are off limits, even if they all have some pretty cool sounding names. If you have any questions, just ask your trusted local firework distributor – that’s if you have one of those in your Rolodex.
“People can find anything they want, but some of the stuff is illegal,” Andrus said.
Where to light
Andrus said it’s important to make sure that when setting off fireworks, it should be done in an open, flat space, devoid of trees and any type of flammable material. Not only should that be common sense, but it will also avoid a call to (and visit from) the fire department. Likely the most important piece of information you need before flicking that lighter is to ensure you are actually allowed to even light them. Fireworks are only permitted on property you own or property in which you’ve received written permission to do so. Also, make sure everyone who is not in charge of actually lighting the fuse is a safe distance away. And don’t forget that fireworks need to be used outside.
“I’d be as far away as possible,” Andrus said. “You’ve got to give those things a lot of respect and distance.”
Proper handling
Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed for their colorful and loud displays, but they should also be handled with care. To ensure your fifth of July is not spent with bandages wrapped around various parts of your body, reading the instructions for each firework is your best first step. Fireworks are meant for adults 21 years and older, and eye protection is always a good idea – just like wearing a helmet while riding a bike, shoes in a public bathroom and floaties when swimming. Make sure to light only one at a time and keep a hose/bucket of water, as well as a fire extinguisher, on hand just to be safe.
“I’d be very careful when you’re standing over them,” Andrus said. “Things can get out of control quickly.”
Concord’s rules
While Andrus would prefer everyone go to the annual fireworks display put on by the city, he understands that many will still want to put on a backyard display. And it’s completely okay to do that, but just be careful.
“The city of Concord doesn’t have any additional restrictions,” Andrus said, but added. “We do caution people.”
Extra precautions
Once done with your display that gets all the neighborhood dogs barking, it’s a good idea to submerge the spent fireworks in water just to make sure there’s no potential for any flare-ups later in the night. And if anything does go wrong, don’t take the time to try and figure it out on your own. Call 911, because the No. 1 goal is safety.
“We would rather be called 100 times for nothing than to be called once for something serious,” Andrus said.
