By Fiona de Young, Community Relations Manager

As a fire district, we often get questions about fireworks, such as ‘which ones are legal?’ and ‘how can we be as safe as possible?’ With good reason, since more than 19,500 fires are caused by fireworks every year, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

Our community is at a very high risk for wildfire, so this year please be extra careful as you celebrate our great nation’s birthday. There are many alternatives to fireworks that can help you get into the patriotic spirit:

Use glow sticks, they glow in the dark and are a safer alternative to sparklers, which can reach temperatures of 1200 degrees.

Red, white and blue silly string, fun for all ages.
Noise makers, loud and proud.
Set up an outdoor movie night or play a fireworks show on YouTube.

Decorate a cake and make it a birthday party for the USA.

Any type of firework that is designed to rise into the air and explode or detonate, or to fly above the ground is illegal in Pima County, unless done in a professional show.

For legal fireworks, we recommend having a water source nearby, such as a garden hose or a big bucket of water. Only use them in an area that is clear of vegetation, dry brush or other flammable materials. Keep them out of reach of children. Children 10 to 14 have the highest rate of fireworks injuries. Finally, light them a safe distance away from your home or shed.

Fireworks can also scare pets, so make sure your pets are securely indoors before the festivities. Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully! After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water before discarding. We hope these tips will be helpful to you in creating a fun and safe celebration.

It’s wildfire season! Our free home assessment program is becoming a Vail favorite. To find out more about creating a wildfire ready home, sign-up for a home assessment program by visiting our web site at rinconvalleyfd.org or call us at (520) 647-3760. Residents must reside within the Wildland Urban Interface to be eligible for a home assessment.

Fiona de Young recently joined the Rincon Valley Fire District as its new Community Relations Manager. In this role, she is responsible for managing the District’s community engagement and media relations. Before joining the District, Fiona worked as an aide to U.S. Senator Martha McSally. She holds a Master’s Degree in Information Studies from the University of Texas at Austin. Fiona loves hiking in the beautiful mountains of Southern Arizona.

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