Community Corner

No Fireworks Permitted in St. Louis County for Fourth of July

Public safety agencies across the metro area are issuing guidelines (and warnings) for safely celebrating America's founding.

Public safety agencies across the St. Louis metro area are urging residents to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals this Fourth of July.

The use, possession or selling of fireworks is illegal in St. Louis County and all 91 municipalities it includes, and the danger they pose was brought in to sharp relief last week when a 10-year-old St. Louis boy lost four fingers after a “consumer-grade” firework exploded in his hand.

In an effort to reduce such injuries, county police said fireworks violations will be part of their primary focus this week, along with stepped up drunk driving enforcement. 

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The term “fireworks” in the County ordinance covers a broad range of explosives, including sparklers and “magic snakes.” Fines for the violations range from $50 to $1,000.

"Please use common sense to prevent personal tragedy during this holiday weekend - act responsibly, keep small children in sight and never trust the lives of loved ones to a driver who has been drinking," said St. Louis County Police Chief Tim Fitch. 

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Area fire departments are also highlighting the potential dangers fireworks cause, with the Monarch Fire Protection District using a live demonstration to illustrate the hazards of sparklers in particular.

According to statistics provided by the Eureka Fire Department from the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks are not just a source of personal injury, but property damage as well.

Nationally in 2010,  fireworks caused an estimated 15,500 reported fires, including 1,100 total structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and 14,100 outside/other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 60 civilian injuries and $36 million in direct property damage.

The department offered the following tips to families looking to have a fun and safe fourth of July:

  • The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home — period. Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
  • Kids should never play with fireworks. Sparklers can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit (982° Celsius) — hot enough to melt gold.
  • Steer clear of others — fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.
  • Don't allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.
  • Think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.

Fireworks, however, are permitted in the surrounding area, including parts of Jefferson, Franklin and St. Charles counties. 

If you do planning on using them to celebrate the holiday, the National Council on Fireworks Safety recommends the following common sense tips:

  • Only use fireworks outdoors;
  • Be sure to have a water supply nearby;
  • Wear safety glasses;
  • Read the instructions on the fireworks carefully and follow the directions;
  • Avoid alcohol;
  • Don’t try to relight a dud firework;
  • Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in the trash;
  • Don’t use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives.

For more tips, visit the council’s website.


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