Fireworks safety ahead of July 4 holiday (VIDEO)

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MONTICELLO – The 4th of July is rapidly approaching and public safety officials want to be sure that anyone celebrating the holiday with fireworks is doing so safely.

Many people choose to purchase fireworks that are not legal in New York State, but can be purchased legally in neighboring states like Pennsylvania.  Powerful fireworks have been outlawed because they can cause serious injury if not handled property.

According to the U.S. Consumer ​Product​ Safety ​Commission, ​in 2023 there were 9,700 people treated in emergency rooms and ​there were eight deaths​ nationwide due to fireworks.  ​Of those injuries, 800 were created by firecrackers and 700 were created by sparklers​ with ​burns.

Scott Schulte, commissioner of public safety in Sullivan County cautioned residents when using fireworks. 

“Losing fingers and hands are all too common around July 4th as well as serious injuries to people’s vision and their face,” said Schulte.  “​In addition, ​if we get into a dry season​ errant fireworks can easily cause a fire in the woods or a brush fire​ that ​can quickly become out of control​.”

​”We remind people as often as we can that if you are shooting fireworks and one doesn’t go off not to approach it​ because it could go off when you don’t expect it.  So just be cognizant of your surroundings, your family, your pets, and your home,” said Shulte.

​”When you’re when you’re utilizing fireworks don’t let little kids light fireworks.  Inevitably they get injured, and they get burned​ because they don’t understand how they work.​  A lot of these injuries are unnecessary​ so exercise caution, while you’re out there,” concluded Chaboty.

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