Village of Westmont
Date Issued: June 30, 2014
The Westmont Fire Department wants to wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July! People love to celebrate our Independence Day with picnics, parties, and unfortunately, fireworks. The Westmont Fire Department discourages the use of all fireworks or celebratory incendiary devices.
Please remember…
FIREWORKS ARE DANGEROUS AND ILLEGAL!
* Serious injuries and deaths have occurred when people use fireworks.
* The use of fireworks is prohibited in the Village of Westmont.
* The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals.
* Sparklers are very dangerous and can burn at over 2000 degrees, sparklers account for a significant number of burn injuries to young children.
* Floating luminaries or lanterns can cause house or tree fires. Do not use in populated areas.
* In 2011, fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 reported fires, including 1,200 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 40 civilian injuries and $32 million in direct property damage.
* In 2012, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,700 people for fireworks related injuries; 55% of 2012 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 31% were to the head.
* The risk of fireworks injury was highest for young people ages 15-24, followed by children under 10.
* On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.
* The Alliance to Stop Consumer Fireworks is a group of health and safety organizations, coordinated by NFPA, that urges the public to avoid the use of consumer fireworks and instead, to enjoy displays of fireworks conducted by trained professionals. Please visit their website for additional information at www.nfpa.org.
