The real dangers posed by fireworks

With the Fourth of July holiday around the corner, I want to remind people of the serious dangers posed by fireworks.

Last year in Illinois, 125 people, most often children and teens, were treated at hospitals across the state for injuries caused by fireworks.

Novelty fireworks such as snakes, sparklers and party poppers are a fun way to celebrate but can be just as dangerous as those that are currently outlawed in Illinois.

While often considered a harmless item that small children can enjoy, sparklers burn at temperatures of up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and accounted for 23 percent of the fireworks related emergency room visits in the state last year.

Not only do fireworks pose a potential threat to life, they can easily ignite fires.

In 2007, fireworks caused nearly 100 fires in Illinois, causing injury to five firefighters and more than $1 million in direct property loss.

To ultimately ensure the safety of your family and loved ones, leave the fireworks to the professionals and attend a licensed display of patriotism this holiday.

ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ  David B. Foreman

ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ ˆ  State Fire Marshal

Springfield