State fire marshal urges communities to take extra precautions during 4th of July celebrations

Dry weather adds to risk of brush fires caused by fireworks

[July 03, 2012]  SPRINGFIELD -- The Office of the State Fire Marshal is warning residents of the heightened danger from fireworks due to overly dry ground conditions. As conditions worsen, brush and other fires may be caused by the use of fireworks.

"It is imperative for our Illinois residents to practice fire safety, abide by state laws and stay away from illegal fireworks," said Larry Matkaitis, state fire marshal. "With the current drought conditions, just one stray spark from a firework can ignite a serious brush fire and could threaten people's lives and property. This year more than ever we encourage people to leave the fireworks to the professionals and consider attending public firework displays."

Drought conditions increase the risk for accidents and brush fires. Most fireworks are illegal in Illinois, and only people with permits from their local authorities are allowed to put on consumer fireworks displays. As a precaution to prevent lawn fires, individuals who have permits for consumer fireworks displays should water the area several days prior to their event, have a 10-pound fire extinguisher nearby and use a flat surface.

Novelty items such as sparklers also pose a significant hazard. Sparklers can burn at temperatures as high as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and shower hot sparks that can easily ignite dry grass or brush.

Last year in Illinois, fireworks were the cause of nearly 200 injuries, and 68 of those cases involved children less than 16 years of age. More than 90 percent of fireworks-related injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms every year involve fireworks permitted under federal regulations, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

Residents should contact their local municipalities for fireworks display events or any special safety regulations implemented due to the dry conditions. For more information on fireworks, visit www.sfm.illinois.gov.

[Text from Office of the State Fire Marshal file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]