[VIDEO] This 4th Of July, Don’t Burn The House Or Blow Up The Car

We’ve all seen what happens when fireworks end up in the wrong hands. People get hurt. Mix in alcohol and your tank top wearing uncle visiting from Kentucky and you’re sure to have a mishap. Every year we go down the list of what should be common sense basic knowledge when using fireworks. With the way 2020 is common sense has basically been canceled.

Every year fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year including 1300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 17,000 various fires nationwide.

Be sure to only use legal fireworks in Amarillo and be sure to follow these safety tips:

Never point or throw fireworks at another person

Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting

Never ignite devices in a container

Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks

Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding

Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire

Never use illegal fireworks

Never allow young children to handle fireworks

Older children should use them only under close adult supervision

Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol

Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eye wear

Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands

Never light them indoors

Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material

You know those cute sparklers that kids so love? Did you know sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees.  To put that in perspective, glass melts at 900 degrees.  Use extreme caution or consider alternatives for kids like confetti poppers or glow sticks.

However you choose to celebrate your freedom this Fourth of July, please do it with care and caution, and have a safe happy Fourth of July!