Front Royal/Warren County public safety agencies urge compliance with fireworks laws and safe practices this 4th of July

The Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, Warren County Fire Marshal’s Office, Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the Front Royal Police Department are urging all citizens to practice safety this 4th of July Holiday and utilize only lawful fireworks.

With the effects of the coronavirus pandemic in Virginia cancelling many of our traditional festivities, residents have taken a DIY (do it yourself) approach to some things we’re missing out on. This will likely be the case with the cancellation of many of our local fireworks events. As a result, it may be tempting to light your own pyrotechnic display.

According to Warren County Commonwealths Attorney’s Office, it is unlawful to possess, use, sell or store any firework that travels into the air or explodes. Any person in violation of this law by selling or using illegal fireworks may result in a criminal penalty of a class 1 misdemeanor; punishable with a fine up to $2,500 or up to one year in jail. Any fireworks discovered to be unlawful may also be seized and destroyed.

The Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Town of Front Royal Police Department and the Warren County Fire Marshal’s Office will be out patrolling our communities and ensuring the safety of our citizens this holiday weekend. Sheriff Butler, Chief Magalis, Fire Marshal Maiatico and Commonwealth Attorney Bell appreciate your assistance in ensuring the safety of our community.

Fireworks should be handled and used in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and all warning labels. “The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch them at a community event where professionals handle them,” says Fire Marshal Gerry R. Maiatico, “For those who use lawful fireworks in their backyards, never allow children of any age to use them without an adult present”.

Recently, a 57 year old linden man was airlifted to a local trauma center when an illegal firework discharged in a close proximity to his hand causing significant injuries. 91 illegal fireworks were confiscated as a result of the incident.

By following these Fireworks Safety Tips, you and your family can have a safe 4th of July Holiday:

• Use only lawful fireworks that are permissible in Virginia. Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burns and injuries. You can help us prevent fireworks-related injuries and deaths. For more information on fireworks safety, visit www.warrencountyfire.com or call 540-636-3830.