REP. WARREN PETRYK’S

REPRESENTING WI STATE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 91

Celebrate safely this 4th of July

The 4th of July is one of my favorite seasons and times of the year. It’s an opportunity to not only spend time with family, friends, and neighbors, but also to celebrate and commemorate the day of our National Independence from the taxes and tyranny of the English throne. We are able to enjoy some of the many local festivities and parades during the day and perhaps sit back and watch a lo- cal fireworks show in the evening. However, if you are one of the many that opt to light off a few fireworks in your backyard instead, please remember to #CelebrateSafely this 4th of July.

Fireworks have real risks. According to the National Fire Protection Association, in recent years, fireworks have caused an estimated 19,500 fires which, in turn, have cost $105 million in property damage. As an example, in 2009 two people launched a flare that caused $50 million in damage to a factory in Milwaukee and stopped work for 1,800 employees, costing both the company and its employee’s indispensable income.

Aside from property damage, improper handling of fireworks can cause personal damage. In recent years, there have been five deaths and around 45 injuries as a result of fires caused by fireworks, as well as around 9,100 injuries directly caused by fireworks. Over one-third of those injuries were to children under the age of 15. More so, over one- third of those injuries were to the eye or head.

Such injuries can be prevented by practicing simple and common-sense safety. If fireworks are legal where you live, please re member to practice these tips from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services when handling them:

• Always read and follow all warnings and label instructions.

• Always have an adult present, and never allow children to play with or ignite fire works.

• Always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the fire work.

• Be sure other people are out of range be- fore lighting fireworks, and light only one firework at a time.

• Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals.

• Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).

• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can.

• Never re-light a “dud” firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water). You can find more tips by visiting: https:// www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/injury-prevention/ fireworks.htm or by watching a video from the US Consumer Products Safety Commission demonstrating the dangers of improper handling of fireworks at: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=TBQHF8lCcK0. And please, remember to be a good neighbor, if you are going to use fireworks, please be courteous and respectful to those around you who may have an aversion to loud noises.

Happy 4th of July!