(KIWA Staff Photo)
Statewide Iowa (RI) — The rain dampened many Independence Day celebrations, leaving some Iowans with bags of unused firecrackers and other fireworks.
Fire safety expert Ryan Lock says taking a few precautions now can help prevent problems later, and it starts with properly storing any leftover fireworks.
Lock says improper storage can increase the risk of fires and injuries. Summer heat can create problems when fireworks are left in garages, sheds, vehicles, or other areas that get extremely hot.
If you don’t want to save leftover fireworks, Lock says you shouldn’t just throw them in the trash.
State health officials say fireworks injuries in Iowa have more than doubled since fireworks were legalized for sale in 2017, with more children being hurt and more people requiring amputations.
