SEASONAL FIRE SAFETY

Fourth of July
Yes, people can die from fireworks and the fires they cause.
The city of Carlsbad explicitly prohibits the sale or use of any fireworks. Only those people with special licenses are allowed "controlled" fireworks displays. Citizens who wish to report illegal use of fireworks should call 9-1-1.

The Fourth of July traditionally presents the biggest fire danger to citizens and is the cause of a great number of fires and burn injuries due to fireworks.

Most fireworks related fires occur in dry brush and grass, but houses can be destroyed or damaged on this holiday.

Nationally, more than $36 million in property is damaged each year due to fireworks. Most fireworks burn injuries involve children. These are usually burns to the hands and eyes causing vision impairment and disfiguring scars. Sparklers are the biggest danger to children. A tip temperature at the end of the sparkler reaches 1800 degrees Fahrenheit and can easily cause a burn.

Some people think that just because some fireworks are legal in some states, they are more safe. The largest share of fireworks injuries are caused by Class C (Safe and Sane) fireworks, the kind that are legal in many states.

Leave fireworks to the professionals.
Restrictions on fireworks are for a good cause. No matter how small or large a fireworks may be, it is a potential fire starter. But it is still possible to celebrate and enjoy the holiday. Families can consult the newspaper or local activity calendar and attend one of several approved, licensed fireworks displays.

Halloween
Halloween is meant to be spooky and fun but it's also important to keep it safe for your children, your friends and yourself.

A simple ghost costume made from an ordinary bed sheet can be consumed by flames if ignited. Purchase only flame-retardant costumes and masks. And be sure costumes fit properly to prevent tripping and falling. Masks should allow full vision.

If trick-or-treating door-to-door, wear something reflective, carry a flashlight and travel in groups for safety. Keep well off the streets and remove masks before crossing the streets. Better yet, have a spooky party and stay in with your friends.

Check all treats carefully before eating them. Report anything suspicious. Instead of a candle to light a jack-o-lantern, use a small flashlight or a liquid light that glows for several hours after you bend it.

Never use combustible materials in a haunted house, especially styrofoam and other plastics, gauze type materials and other loose flammables such as leaves and papers. These materials can quickly cause the spread of fire. This situation can be especially dangerous when the fire starts in a confined space such as the dark interior of a haunted house display.

For more information on on Fire Safety
National Fire Protection Association