The Fourth of July is only a couple of weeks away, and staying home to celebrate with a backyard barbecue or going out on the town, keep yourself safe and out of legal trouble during the holiday.

From the City of McKinney:

The McKinney Fire Department urges residents to enjoy fireworks safely this Fourth of July by attending local sanctioned fireworks shows like the Red, White and BOOM! celebration, presented by trained professionals who adhere to strict safety codes. Possession, storage, sale, handling and use of fireworks are prohibited within the city limits of McKinney and its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).  

Illegal fireworks include anything designed to produce a visible and audible effect by ignition with a match or other heat-producing device. Sparklers, fire crackers and roman candles are examples of illegal fireworks. Fireworks found within the city limits of McKinney will be immediately confiscated, and violators could be fined up to $2,000 for each offense.  

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2010 fireworks caused an estimated 15,500 reported fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported deaths, 60 injuries and $36 million in direct property damage. In 2010, U.S. hospital emergency rooms saw an estimated 8,800 people for fireworks related injuries.  

“Fireworks safety is not a supervision issue. A fireworks injury happens in the blink of an eye, whether or not a parent or other responsible adult is present. The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals. Celebrate Independence Day safely at Red, White and BOOM!” said McKinney Fire Prevention Chief Dwayne Henderson.  

For more information on fireworks or other fire and life safety topics, contact the Fire Prevention Office at 972-547-2879 or visit www.mckinneyfire.org.