WARREN COUNTYFIRE & RESCUE SERVICES |
FIREWORKS DEMAND CAUTION AND COMMON SENSE Every year thousands of Americans are injured in fireworks related accidents. The Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services would like area residents to have an "injury-free Fourth". The best way to avoid injuries involving fireworks is to not use them in the first place. Instead, attend public displays conducted by fireworks professionals. Use CAUTION and COMMON SENSE to have a safe and enjoyable 4th of July holiday. For further information contact the Fire Administration Office at (540) 636-3830.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Fireworks
What precautions should people take when using fireworks this Fourth of July?
There are many precautions that everyone should heed when enjoying fireworks:
What are the different classifications of fireworks?
Consumer
Fireworks (formerly known as "Class C" Fireworks) - Also known as
1.4G Fireworks. These devices are most commonly sold at neighborhood stands
during the Fourth of July season.
Display Fireworks (formerly known as "Class B" Fireworks) - Also
known as 1.3G Fireworks. These are the fireworks used in large community
displays run by licensed professionals (pyrotechnicians). These devices are not
intended for use by consumers.
What is the maximum amount of explosive material contained in a consumer fireworks device?
The legal limit of explosive material in a consumer (1.4G or Class C) firework is 50 mg (about the size of half an aspirin tablet). Any item containing more than 50 mg is illegal and should be avoided.
How can I recognize an illegal firework?
Look for a
manufacturer's name on each item or on the box in which they were packaged.
Each device should also list instructions for proper use and have cautionary
labeling. The manufacturer's name and cautionary labeling are required by law.
Fireworks without this information are probably illegal and, therefore, to be
avoided. If you suspect that you have illegal fireworks, contact the Bureau of
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms at 1-888-ATF-BOMB.
Cherry bombs, M-80s, M-100s, and silver salutes are all examples of illegal
explosives, sometimes mistakenly referred to by the press as legal, consumer
fireworks. These items are extremely dangerous. Fireworks made from mail order
kits are illegal and dangerous. NEVER attempt to make your own fireworks or
tamper with legal consumer fireworks. Be extremely careful when ordering
fireworks over the Internet. If you do use the Internet to obtain fireworks, be
sure that you are purchasing from an established, legal vendor. Also, be sure
to know all of the local laws concerning the use of fireworks in your state
before ordering any items.
What fireworks are legal in Virginia?
The law is different in each state. For a breakdown of these laws by state, visit our Directory of State Laws. Please be aware that within each state there may be local restrictions as well. Please contact your local fire or police department for the laws regarding your area.
How many people use illegal fireworks? What can I do to stop the use of illegal fireworks?
The use of illegal fireworks is widespread and comprises a significant percentage of the injuries that are attributed to fireworks every year. The battle against illegal fireworks is being fought on many fronts. You can help prevent the use of these highly dangerous devices by staying away from any item you suspect may be illegal and by reporting the sale or use of any suspicious items to your local police or fire department, or to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms at 1-888-ATF-BOMB.
How many people are injured by fireworks each year?
Although the number of people enjoying fireworks today is significantly greater than ever before, the fireworks industry's numerous safety campaigns and consumer education programs are paying off, as evidenced by the amazing 44% decrease in the injury rate of fireworks-related accidents. Unfortunately, a large majority of these injuries are the result of the misuse of legal consumer items or the use of illegal explosives.
How do fireworks work?
The basic ingredient of fireworks is black powder - also known as gunpowder. However, the creation of a fireworks display is truly an art form, one that has been perfected by some families for generations. The "paints" used by a craftsman of a pyrotechnic device are the different chemicals added during production. These chemicals provide the dazzling array of colors and visual effects on the canvas of a night sky, as well as the sounds (reports) that accompany the burst. The manufacturer carefully selects the chemicals to be used and determines the order in which they are packed into the casing in an effort to create a specific visual effect. Once the materials are packed into the casing, a fuse is affixed so that the device can be safely ignited. Although all of the colors and effects of a fireworks display are spectacular, the hallmark of a truly fine show are deep blue or dazzling white bursts - the marks of an expert pyrotechnician.
How can we best enjoy a fireworks display?
Here are a few tips to help you maximize your enjoyment of a public fireworks display:
Where can I learn more about the safe enjoyment of fireworks?
The National
Council on Fireworks Safety is a valuable resource for learning more about
safely enjoying fireworks. A nonprofit organization, the Council is dedicated
to promoting the safe use of fireworks. Through education programs involving
the media, safety organizations and police and fire departments, the National
Council on Fireworks Safety helps educate the millions of Americans who use
fireworks every year.
Have any more questions about fireworks? Let us know!