As Independence Day celebrations approach, fireworks vendors and fire safety officials are reminding residents that a few simple precautions can help prevent injuries, fires, and property damage during the holiday weekend.
Consumer fireworks are legal in Louisiana during designated sales periods, but improper handling remains one of the leading causes of fireworks-related accidents.
Among the most important safety recommendations is to use fireworks only in open areas away from trees, homes, vehicles, and other structures. State fire safety guidance recommends using consumer fireworks in cleared spaces at least 200 feet from buildings and vehicles whenever possible.
Maggie Whitaker of Hathorn’s Fireworks said users should always be aware of where fireworks are pointed before lighting them.
“Most definitely do not aim it toward anybody, especially Roman candles, and when you light them, do it in a safe open area — not around trees,” Whitaker said.
Fire safety officials recommend placing fireworks only on a flat, hard surface, such as a concrete driveway, rather than on grass or wooden decks. Mortar tubes should be secured with bricks, sandbags, or other supports to prevent them from tipping over.
When lighting fireworks, users should crouch to the side rather than directly over the device, light only one firework at a time, and move quickly to a safe distance after ignition.
Officials also stress that fireworks that fail to ignite should never be relit. Instead, residents should wait at least 20 minutes before soaking the device in water prior to disposal.
Keeping water nearby is another key safety measure. A charged garden hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher should be within reach whenever fireworks are being used. Spent fireworks should also be thoroughly soaked before being placed in outdoor trash containers to prevent hidden embers from starting fires.
Children should never handle or ignite fireworks, officials said. Even sparklers, often considered a safer option, can burn at temperatures approaching 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals and cause severe burns.
Anyone responsible for lighting fireworks should remain sober, and fireworks should never be ignited while being held in the hand unless the manufacturer’s instructions specifically state it is safe to do so. Safety glasses are also recommended for anyone nearby to protect against stray sparks or debris.
Residents are also reminded to be considerate of neighbors, pets, and livestock, as loud fireworks can frighten animals and create additional safety hazards.
For those planning last-minute purchases, Hathorn’s Fireworks will be open from approximately 8 AM to 10 PM through July 3. On Independence Day, the stand will remain open until midnight before reopening July 5 with shortened business hours.
Officials encourage everyone celebrating the Fourth of July to follow manufacturer instructions and use common sense so holiday festivities remain both enjoyable and safe.