Safely Ring In the New Year

December 27, 2022

The City of Tallahassee Fire Department (TFD) reminds the community that, with the New Year approaching, it is paramount to stay safe with fireworks and stay diligent in fire safety practices.

Fireworks cause a reported 19,500 fires annually. In addition to the fire danger, fireworks pose a threat to people's health and safety. Half of the injuries caused by fireworks seen in emergency rooms were to extremities: hand, finger or leg. One-third were to the eye or other parts of the head. Sparklers account for around one-fourth of emergency room injuries from fireworks.

TFD wants everyone to have a happy and safe New Year's. There are many ways to stay festive without fireworks, but if you choose to use them, follow these fireworks safety tips to ring in 2023 safely:

• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Keep a water hose or a bucket of water nearby in case of fire.
• Check your neighborhood rules to ensure the proper use of fireworks in your area.
• Light fireworks one at a time and quickly move back.
• Find a flat surface and make sure it is not too windy when using fireworks.
• Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting.
• Wear eye protection.
• Don't carry fireworks in your pocket — the friction could set them off.
• Point fireworks away from homes and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.
• Soak all used fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.

The City of Tallahassee wishes everyone a safe and happy new year!