CARMEL — The holiday weekend kicks off today and the Carmel Fire Department wants to remind you to be careful while celebrating.
“This is a time that people really need to be careful. The first thing we always suggest is (to) go to the professional shows. Don't do them on your own because something can happen — and a lot of times it will,” Carmel Firefighter Tim Griffin said.
RELATED: Where to watch fireworks for the Fourth of July in Central Indiana
Griffin isn’t just talking about the big fireworks. He said most injuries the department sees come from sparklers.
“You give them to your kids, and they are 1500 degrees to 2000 degrees, so we're talking extremely hot. They can burn the skin really fast, and not to mention even after that for a long time they can (burn),” Griffin said.
Mortars that the professionals use are the most dangerous. Griffin said members of the public shouldn't use them.
“Anything can happen. This is soft tissue, and these are large explosions, so you need to be careful, be safe and go to the professional shows,” Griffin said.
Griffin said you should keep several things in mind if you decide to do fireworks:
- Make sure you have plenty of space between you and the fireworks
- Never let children handle fireworks
- Wear protective glasses
- Have a water source nearby
Here are more tips from the National Safety Council.
-
Mulch, mow, rake or compost: Sustainable options for fall leaves
Leaves will soon be covering the ground across Central Indiana. What should you do with the leaves if you want to be sustainable?Cost isn't a barrier to care at Hancock Health Women's Clinic
For nearly 30 years, a clinic in Hancock County has worked to remove cost as a barrier to health care for Hoosier women.Domestic violence awareness month sheds light on survivors, local resources
Unfortunately, domestic violence impacts people every day. October brings awareness to domestic violence and the available resources.Sticker shock as new car prices hit over $50,000; here's how drivers are saving
For the first time ever, the average new vehicle cost surpassed $50,000. Industry experts warn this could continue to rise, leading many to reconsider their plans for car buying.