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6 fireworks safety videos, from the serious to the humorous

As fireworks season begins, cities and FDs are sharing safety and fire prevention tips to educate citizens and avoid disasters

Fourth oƒ July Celebrations

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Fire up the grill, get out your mosquito spray and fly that flag, because it’s almost time to celebrate America’s birthday!

But before you do, your local fire department needs to have a word with you. It may be in the form of an over-the-top silly video or a stern warning to heed the rules of your city and county, but one thing is for sure: They want to get across the message that while fireworks are fun, they are also dangerous and could potentially damage property, injure someone or start a fire.

Check out these videos from city officials and fire departments across the country that are collectively saying one thing: be careful this Fourth of July holiday.

Has your fire department created a video to spread the message of firework safety? Send the link to editor@firerescue1.com.

1. Catoosa County (Ga.) Fire Department

... with special guest Sparky the fire dog! Listen as Sparky teams up with the CCFD to share some July 4th holiday safety tips.

2. San Angelo (Texas) Fire Department

Deputy Fire Marshal Eric Martinson with the SAFD offers some no-nonsense fireworks guidance for the local community.

3. Superstition (Ariz.) Fire & Medical District

In a comedic take, the SFMD showcased Firefighter Spencer to illustrate what not to do this July 4th holiday.

4. Utah Unified Fire Authority

Amid a video background of buring forests, Utah’s Unified Fire Authority urges community members to be responsible when celebrating with fireworks this July 4th weekend.

5. Georgetown (Texas) Fire Department

The GFD shared the heartbreaking story of 3-year-old Michael Shannon , who tragically died after a firework struck him in the head.

6. CAL FIRE

Reminding Californians to only buy state fire marshal-approved fireworks, CAL FIRE also shares their top tips to stay safe over the July 4th weekend.

7. Racine (Wis.) Fire Department

The RFD not only shared their top firework safety tips, but how to avoid any holiday grilling mishaps, as well!

Additional resources:

Fireworks types, regulations and inspections, plus a simple tip for discouraging backyard displays
From burns to bleeding, head trauma to amputation, be prepared for when fireworks go wrong

This article, originally published on June 28, 2019, has been updated with additional resources.

Rachel Engel is an award-winning journalist and the senior editor of FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. In addition to her regular editing duties, Engel seeks to tell the heroic, human stories of first responders and the importance of their work. She earned her bachelor’s degree in communications from Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, and began her career as a freelance writer, focusing on government and military issues. Engel joined Lexipol in 2015 and has since reported on issues related to public safety. Engel lives in Wichita, Kansas. She can be reached via email.