Video: Fireworks Sales Expected to Pick Up; Officials Urge Caution

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BY MARY CARROLL SULLIVAN,
and JONATHAN FLIPPO

MISSISSIPPI (WCBI) — Lovely from a distance, consumer fireworks can mean trips to the emergency room.

Children under 15 years old are most at risk.

Sparklers are a favorite with children, but many parents don’t realize sparklers can burn as hot as 1,200 degrees fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third degree burns.

Officials always encourage parents and consumers to follow the directions provided on firework packages, as well as brush up on local laws regarding fireworks. Some cities have outlawed shooting fireworks inside city limits.

Officials also encourage consumers to purchase fireworks from reputable dealers.

“(Fireworks sales) have been really down with all the wet weather, and I’m really hoping it picks up today,” Orbit Fireworks Manager Jackie Gosa said. “It’s a beautiful day, so just hoping and praying.”

Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney recently gave the following pointers on how to appropriately handle fireworks:

• never point or throw fireworks at another person;
• always have an adult present when shooting fireworks;
• put used fireworks in a bucket of water with a water hose on hand;
• only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass and trees;
• light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance;
• never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks; and
• never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

Many area firework stands are expected to remain open for the rest of the weekend during the New Year’s holiday.