(Beaver Dam) July is Fireworks Safety Awareness Month and local officials are urging the public to take precautions and put safety first when using pyrotechnics. Beaver Dam Deputy Fire Chief Matt Christian says fireworks should only be used outside and directed away from spectators, houses, buildings and other flammable materials. Children using fireworks, even sparklers, should be at least 12-years-old and closely supervised.
Dodge County Sheriff’s Captain Chad Enright says that alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Enright also warns the public that not all fireworks sold in Wisconsin can be legally used in the state. If it goes up in the air or explodes, it is illegal in Wisconsin. He warns not to believe the permits sold at fireworks stands, adding that citations will still be given and that those citations are not cheap. The only way to obtain a permit for usage is through the municipality where the fireworks will be used. He that the laws are on the books because people do get significantly injured, often with the injured being kids
More than 75% of people injured during the July 4 holiday in Wisconsin are males, and almost half are under the age of 15 according to Wisconsin Department of Health & Human services. Hands and eyes were the most-injured body parts by the simplest of fireworks – like firecrackers (26%) and sparklers (11%).
