Celebrate July 4th Safely

DEM Blogger

July 1, 2018

There’s nothing more July 4th than fireworks, but it’s important to remember that all fireworks have danger associated with them – some more than others.

The Lexington Fire Department along with other local, state and federal public safety agencies want you to have fund and celebrate the holiday safely.

“The general rule of thumb is if it goes up or blows up it’s more dangerous, and therefore illegal in Lexington,” said Lexington Fire Lieutenant Jessica Bowman. “Our recommendation is to leave the fireworks to the professionals. Lexington has worked hard to offer a variety of ways to celebrate the fourth of July, including a free fireworks show.”

Just about anywhere inside New Circle Road that has a clear view of downtown will be a good viewing place for the Lexington fireworks display, which will be launched from the roof of the Lexington Financial Center (also known as the Big Blue Building).

The display will start at 10pm, with a soundtrack available on 92.1 FM.

Here’s the complete July 4th Festival event schedule in Lexington.

In Lexington, the types of fireworks allowed for sale and use is limited. Typical approved items include fountains, snakes, sparklers, pinwheels and noisemakers are approved. Any device that includes the words “explosive, emits flaming pellets or balls, firecrackers or rocket” is illegal.

Here’s more on Fayette County fireworks rules and regulations.

Watch the video from the Consumer Products Safety Commission on fireworks safety.

If you do decide to set off approved fireworks from your home, remember these safety tips:

• Never reignite malfunctioning fireworks
• Only use outdoors, and away from vehicles
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks
• Only buy fireworks from a licensed stand or store
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Light fireworks one at a time, and then move back quickly
• Before discarding, douse fireworks in water to prevent a trash fire
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose close by in case of fire or other mishap

Sparklers are the #1 source of fireworks-related injuries. A lit sparkler is as hot as a welding torch.  Here are some tips on safe sparkler use.