- October 11, 2024
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With Independence Day on the way, Volusia County Fire Rescue officials are encouraging residents to leave the show to the pros and keep personal fireworks off the beach.
There are twice as many fires reported on Independence Day as on any other day, and half of those are from fireworks.
Consumer-grade fireworks are banned on Volusia County’s beaches, where they leave a mess and can frighten nesting sea turtles and cause birds to abandon nests.
Several cities have also passed ordinances prohibiting personal fireworks.
“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by watching public displays,” Fire Chief Joe King said. “We caution residents against using fireworks because they can cause fires and injuries when used improperly.”
Fireworks injure more than 10,000 people each year, and even sparklers can be dangerous, King noted. They burn at temperatures of 1,200 degrees — as hot as a blow torch. When children hold sparklers close to their bodies, they can burn their skin or set fire to their clothes.
Volusia County Fire Rescue offers these safety tips for consumers who purchase legal fireworks:
“Please keep a watchful eye on the children as we celebrate our nation’s independence,” King urged.
