Published: June 22, 2009 09:01 am      

What you need to know about fireworks

CLINTON — Fourth of July celebrations are typically marked by food, parades and most of all, fireworks. With the Fourth around the corner, it is important to be aware of firework safety hazards and what is and is not legal.

“The thing that most people don’t realize is that most fireworks are illegal in Iowa,” said Clinton Fire Marshal Mike Brown.

According to Brown, the only firework-type items that are legal in Iowa are sparklers, snakes and caps for cap guns.

It is illegal to sell, use or explode any other firework items, including smoke bombs, party poppers and firecrackers.

Clinton Police Cpl. Joe Raaymakers said there is a $135 fine for setting off fireworks within city limits.

However, there are exceptions for city-permitted firework displays, like those during Riverboat Days.

“The people that set off fireworks for Riverboat Days are licensed and trained and follow direct guidelines,” stated Brown.

Even though sparklers are allowed, Brown stated that they can be very dangerous as, when lit, they can reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.

“No one under 12 should use a sparkler,” Brown said, adding that it is hard to keep them away from younger children.

For those planning on using legal firework items in the future, there are several important guidelines to keep in mind.

Brown said there should be careful adult supervision and sparklers should be kept well away from the body. Snakes should be set off on a concrete surface. A bucket of water should be nearby, in case of fire. Burned out sparklers should be placed in an empty bucket to cool. Never light snakes or sparklers near anything combustible.

Also, Brown stated that alcohol and fireworks do not mix.

For firework users, the main priority is safety, said Brown. He indicated there are around 10,000 injuries each year from fireworks.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fireworks can be associated with blindness, third-degree burns and permanent scarring.

In 2006, there were 1,000 injuries associated with sparkler use alone, stated the CDC. Also, sparklers accounted for one-third of the injuries to children less than 5 years of age.

The CDC cited the main danger from sparklers is that they can ignite clothing.

Because of the dangers of fireworks, Brown recommends members of the community watch professional displays.

Clinton fireworks will be over the river following the Aaron Tippin concert at Riverboat Days on July 4.