It’s the eve of Independence Day. In addition to the fire and smoke from local grills this weekend, we have a pretty strong suspicion that there will be fireworks – lots of them.
Please be mindful of laws dealing with fireworks and safety issues.
It is unlawful to sell or discharge fireworks within the city limits of El Dorado, per Ordinance No. 1072. That’s why all the stands are sitting on the outskirts of town.
Police Chief Billy White said the department responds to citizen calls and violators of the law are subject to citation and seizure of fireworks, if caught.
Along with obeying the law, the National Council on Fireworks Safety encourages the following:
• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
And don’t forget your furry friends. The American Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that fireworks can burn animals and may be toxic, as some contain potassium nitrate, arsenic and other heavy metals. And there’s also the concern of the loud noises and explosive visuals. Many a pet has run off and been lost due to being afraid of fireworks.
Have a safe and happy Independence Day.