State Fire Marshal Lists July 4th Safety Tips and Approved Sparklers For Use In Florida

2,000 sparklers are approved for use in Florida

WATCH: The National Fire Protection Association urges the public not to use consumer fireworks because they are too dangerous.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — The Florida State Fire Marshal is urging Floridians to celebrate safely during the Fourth of July celebrations.

“Independence Day weekend is a time to celebrate our country’s freedom and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, but we must be smart and remember that fires and serious injuries can be caused by the improper use of fireworks,” said CFO Atwater.

“Ensure your friends and family stay safe this Fourth of July by safely and correctly using fireworks.”

In Florida, hundreds of fireworks-related incidents are responded to by fire departments across the state during the Fourth of July holiday.

Ensure that you have a safe holiday by checking the Division of State Fire Marshal’s list of more than 2,000 sparklers that are approved for use in Florida.

Anyone purchasing fireworks should also keep these safety tips in mind:

■ Never give sparklers to young children, because sparklers can reach temperatures between 1,300 and 1,800 degrees, at least 200 degrees hotter than a standard butane lighter.

■ Keep pets indoors and away from all sparklers.

■ Light only one item at a time and never attempt to re-light.

■ Keep a fire extinguisher and water hose on hand for emergencies and a bucket of water available for used sparklers.

■ Only purchase sparklers from licensed vendors.

■ Attend a public fireworks show. Many public displays sponsored by communities or organizations are presented all across Florida.

■ Floridians should not sign “waivers” in order to purchase fireworks. Signing a waiver will not clear a consumer of responsibility if caught illegally using fireworks.

CLICK HERE for a complete list of Florida-approved sparklers your family can enjoy.

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