Police chief offers reminders on fireworks

Independence Day is a day of celebration and fun, but Blytheville Police Chief Ross Thompson is urging citizens to refrain from shooting off fireworks within the city limits.

According to city ordinance 87, anyone found igniting any type of fireworks within the city limits can be charged with a misdemeanor and issued fines of up to $25 per offense.

But Thompson said there's more at stake when using fireworks than just potential fines, especially if they are shot off in and around neighborhoods.

"These ordinances are pretty old, and that's reflected in the relatively low fines, but it's really about more than just not getting a fine," Thompson said. "If you're shooting off fireworks in a neighborhood and it lands on someone's roof or in some old dead grass, you could have a major fire in no time."

Thompson said despite these warnings, there are always those who are going to ignore the law. As a result, Thompson said the Police Department has a full staff working the night of July 4, including himself. Officers out on patrol will be keeping an eye out for those whoinsist on having their own fireworks display, and residents are encouraged to call in with any tips.

"We appreciate anyone calling in to let us know about potentially dangerous situations, but it would be impractical for us to respond to every call," Thompson said. "Our officers will certainly be watching for people shooting off the large displays, but we won't be able to run out to every report of a firecracker."

While the Fourth is a celebration enjoyed by children and adults alike, Thompson said people should never mix alcohol with fireworks, regardless of where they choose to celebrate. Adding alcohol to one's celebration can result in some serious jail time if things get out of hand.

"It never fails, someone out there will get drunk and start a fight and then they'll get more than just a fine," said Thompson.

Keeping these things in mind can help everyone have a safe and happy Independence Day and Thompson said whether people choose to shoot fireworks in a safe environment or go watch a large show -- like the one at the Blytheville Youth Sportsplex -- the day is about having fun and celebrating.

For those who do decide to have their own fireworks show here are a few tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

-- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.

-- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.

-- Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees -- hot enough to melt some metals.

-- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.

-- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.

-- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

-- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.

-- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.

-- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

-- After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

-- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

cpinkard@blythevillecourier.com