Fire marshal: Leave fireworks to the pros

CONCORD — Don’t set off fireworks on your own — attend a professional display, is the advice from State Fire Marshal Sean Toomey in a press release. 

Independence Day is Friday, and fireworks displays are a traditional aspect of the holiday, which marks the nation’s founders signing the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

“Fireworks can be exciting, but they are explosive devices that can be dangerous and unpredictable,” Toomey wrote. “Let’s have a safe and happy Fourth of July by taking all necessary precautions when enjoying the holiday.”

The safest way to enjoy fireworks over the holiday, Toomey wrote, is to attend a public display. Those displays are produced by trained and licensed professional pyrotechnicians, and they’re inspected by public safety officers to ensure they meet certain standards. 

Fireworks buyers are advised to check with their local fire department for any specific guidelines or restrictions. 

For people who are legally able to purchase and use fireworks, the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends keeping three core safety guidelines in mind: be prepared, be safe and be responsible.

To purchase, possess or display fireworks, you must be 21 years of age or older. Make sure fireworks are stored securely and away from children. Limit purchases to only the amount of fireworks you intend to crack off, and keep a water hose, bucket of water or a fire extinguisher handy. Check daily forest fire weather forecasts and don’t light fireworks in dry, windy conditions.

Only display fireworks on private property or with the written permission of a property owner. Some locations specifically prohibit fireworks, including New Hampshire beaches, parks, campgrounds and state or federal forest lands. Using fireworks in prohibited locations could result in civil liability for damages.

It’s imperative to follow the safety directions on each device — only light one at a time, and move away quickly. Fireworks don’t belong indoors, only light them outside in open spaces, away from spectators, buildings, dry grass or other flammable materials. Don’t drink liquor while handling fireworks and never allow children to handle, play with or light any type of fireworks under any circumstances. 

“Supervision is crucial to prevent accidents, as even sparklers can cause significant injury, burning at temperatures over 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit,” Toomey wrote.

The use of free-floating, unmanned sky lanterns and similar devices using an open flame is strictly illegal in New Hampshire, but tethered or anchored sky lanterns are permitted. 

Never forget — if fireworks fail to ignite, wait at least 15 minutes before handling them, then soak them in water. Do not ever give reigniting, altering or fixing fireworks which failed to ignite another shot. Make sure to clear all debris after a fireworks display and secure unused fireworks, matches and lighters in a cool, dry place and prevent any access to children.

“The use of illegal fireworks should be reported to a local law enforcement agency's non-emergency dispatch,” Toomey wrote. “911 should only be contacted in the event of an emergency.”