NEWS RELEASE

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                     Contact: Jay Smith, Public Affairs/Marketing Manager  (716) 818-0678

Date: Wednesday, June 28, 2006                                                                                      

 

 

RURAL/METRO WARNS PUBLIC ABOUT DANGERS OF FIREWORKS

 

 

BUFFALO, N.Y. (Wednesday, July 28, 2006) – Every year, thousands of people nationwide -- mostly children -- are seriously injured in fireworks-related incidents.  That’s why Rural/Metro Medical Services officials are taking time out of this Fourth of July holiday to encourage everyone to leave fireworks in the hands of experts.

“As you make plans for this 4th of July holiday weekend, we encourage you to enjoy the fireworks presentations taking place at many community festivals and gatherings rather than in your own backyard,” said Jay Smith, Public Affairs/Marketing Manager.  “The idea is to enjoy and get home safely rather than take a trip to the emergency room in one of our ambulances.  Unfortunately, our call volume increases at this time of the year, and most of these injuries are due to amateur misuse of fireworks.”

The most serious of these fireworks-related injuries are permanent, resulting in the loss of an eye, a finger, or life.  Injuries can occur in an instant if a device goes off course or if a child grabs it.  Even sparklers, which are considered by many to be harmless, can heat up to over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

“The few seconds of pleasure these fireworks may bring are not worth the risk of permanent injury,” said Smith. 

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June is National Fireworks Safety Month

            The National Council on Fireworks and the Consumer Product Safety Commission remind us that June is National Fireworks Safety Month and calls community leaders to promote awareness and responsibility when handling fireworks.  And although Fireworks-Related Injury Rates are trending down, over the last decade the numbers average around 10,000 fireworks related injuries.  To help you celebrate safely this Fourth of July, keep some of these tips in mind:

  • Always read and follow instructions
  • Have an adult present
  • Light only one firework at a time
  • Never re-light a “dud” firework
  • Never throw or point fireworks at other people
  • Wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework


Rural/Metro also reminds the public:  If you - or someone you know - is hurt, immediately call 911. Be sure to listen closely to what the 911 operator says, as it can save someone's life and/or limb.  Unfortunately, time is of the essence in a fireworks related injury.

           

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