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Illinois is one of three states that do not allow fireworks, but
that doesn’t stop Illinoisans from going over the border to buy
them from neighboring states.
Luis Duran with the Rockford Fire Department said northern
Illinois has been very dry, which has his department on edge as
the July 4th holiday approaches.
“Every year we do get a little nervous because of the dangers of
fireworks themselves, especially when we have a drought, it does
make us a little more nervous and we’re taking extra precautions
by having more personnel out,” said Duran.
Fire officials say residents should cancel any bonfires,
fireworks or any open flame until the state receives more rain.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks
started an estimated 12,264 fires in 2021, including 2,082
structure fires, 316 vehicle fires and 9,866 outside and other
fires. These fires caused 29 civilian injuries and $59 million
in direct property damage.
The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal encourages
everyone to let the professionals handle fireworks. They note
that sparklers account for the greatest number of fireworks
injuries, and often to the youngest victims.
As communities around the state prepare to celebrate the holiday
with a fireworks display, a recent grass fire during a HomerFest
fireworks display in Homer Glen may be a sign that there needs
to be extra caution this year when dealing with pyrotechnics.
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