Northwest Iowa — Many northwest Iowans are celebrating this Independence Day holiday by shooting off fireworks, the first time that’s been legal in Iowa in more than 80 years. With the use of these devices, however, comes the potential of injury or fire, if they’re not used properly.
Within the past week at least one fire in the northwest Iowa area has been blamed on the use of fireworks. Sibley Fire Chief Ken Huls says these explosive devices must be used responsibly to avoid causing a fire.
In addition to the fire risk, Chief Huls says there is a danger of injury, as well, when fireworks are used in an irresponsible manner.
Once in a while, a lit firework will fail to go off. Huls tells us what to do, and NOT to do, if such a situation arises.
He says what you wear is also important in avoiding fireworks-related injuries.
Huls reminds you to keep fireworks away from flammable liquids, structures, and very dry vegetation, and to have a bucket of water handy just in case.
And, of course, he says if your celebration includes alcohol, leave the fireworks to somebody else.
