EDMOND —
With Independence Day just around the corner, city officials want to remind residents that it is illegal to possess or use fireworks in city limits.
Edmond Fire Maj. Kelly Lewis said the Edmond Fire Department wants residents to avoid tragedy and enjoy the nation’s birthday without adding the risk and hazards of handling fireworks on their own.
“With that said, it doesn’t mean you have to have a void and quiet sky to celebrate,” Lewis said. “We encourage residents to join us for the LibertyFest fireworks show located on the University of Central Oklahoma campus.”
Edmond Police Department spokeswoman Jenny Monroe said fireworks are not allowed within city limits. That includes transporting them in a vehicle. Monroe said fireworks will be confiscated from offenders, who could receive a $249 fine for possessing them.
Lewis said the LibertyFest fireworks show is a fun, safe environment controlled by professionals. As usual, residents are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets, sit back and enjoy the show. It will begin at 10 p.m. and last about an hour. Folks may also tune in to KCSC FM 90.1, where the fireworks will be synchronized to music.
The grand finale of the festival is the largest fireworks display in the metro area, featured as being among the top 10 in the nation by CNN and USA Today, according to the LibertyFest website.
LibertyFest, which turns 40 this year, entertains more than 125,000 annually and is organized and produced by more than 500 volunteers. The series of events from June 23-July 4 are a combined effort of the City of Edmond, the University of Central Oklahoma and Edmond businesses, civic organizations and individuals who sponsor and support festival events.
FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
Health officials warn that fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries.
The Paul Silverstein Burn Center at Integris Baptist Medical Center receives patients every year from personal fireworks accidents, according to safety information released by the hospital. That’s why physicians recommend attending professional displays instead.
But if fireworks are legal where you live and you decide to set them off on your own, the hospital urges that you follow these important safety tips:
• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a designated adult shooter.
• The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
• Never give fireworks to small children. Only persons age 12 or older should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type and an adult should be present.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Only use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter them or combine them. Never experiment or make your own fireworks.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Never re-light a “dud” firework and never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter. Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Keep a bucket of water in case of a malfunction or fire. Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can.
If you or someone you know suffers a fireworks injury to the eye go to nearest emergency room for immediate evaluation. If the burn is small and to the skin, cool the burn with water not ice and see your personal physician. For larger burns, seek assistance in the emergency room.
If you have any more questions or concerns regarding fireworks safety call the Edmond Fire Prevention office at 216-7303.
marks@edmondsun.com | 341-2121, ext. 108
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