Fireworks Not Wildfires, DNR Gives Tips
Fireworks are already going off in a lot of areas. I know in my neighborhood we had people shooting off fireworks on Fathers Day.
Now we are going through a dry spell, and the DNR wants to make sure that everyone has a great time on the Fourth of July, but just don't burn down the neighborhood.
Keep this in mind: fireworks start nearly 18,500 wildfires, burning down buildings and injuring people every year.
If you are getting sick of fireworks already, know that they are legal throughout Michigan from 11 AM to 11:45 PM, June 29th through July 4th.
If fireworks are part of your celebration, take precautions to prevent any fires and keep your friends and families safe. Always have a bucket of water handy, and remember that sparklers, which seem harmless are the largest cause of injuries for children under the age of 5.
With life during the coronavirus, most area fireworks displays are closed, so more and more people are going to be doing their own fireworks at home. This is where you need to be careful.
The DNR recommends following a few tips to reduce risks with your at home fireworks:
- Toss hand-held fireworks, like sparklers, into a bucket of water when finished.
- Keep that water source ready to spray any embers from the fireworks.
- Spray the entire area where you will be using the fireworks with water when done.
- DO NOT try to re-ignite fireworks that won't go off. That never turns out well.
- Fireworks should not be launched into forests or fields, dry grass or leaves could catch on fire very quickly.
Firework displays are still a go in a few places in Michigan, like on Mackinac Island. Fireworks in Frankenmuth will go on, and the Village of Breckenridge in Gratiot County will have their fireworks at dusk on the 4th. Alpena will still have fireworks and so will East Tawas, St. Ignance says their fireworks are still a go, so is the display in Sault Ste. Marie will go on, and Gaylord will have 3 fireworks displays for the locals to choose from.
A couple of tips from me.....never EVER put fireworks in body parts; that is a horrible and possibly deadly idea. If someone says "here, hold my beer" something stupid is about to happen, so just walk away.