Dry weather conditions raise concerns for firework use over the 4th of July weekend
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Missouri continues to experience dry conditions across the state and the Missouri Division of Fire Safety is urging everyone to use caution if planning to shoot off fireworks during the 4th of July weekend.
On Thursday, the Boone County Fire Protection District responded to a fire which it believes was started by fireworks.
In addition, within the last month, the Columbia dispatch log reports emergency crews have responded to more than 25 firework calls.
According to the most recent drought map for the state which was released Thursday, more than 93% of the state is experiencing some sort of drought with 15% experiencing extreme drought.
The state has also reported three counties have issued burn bans including Monroe County.
Centralia, Boonville, Rosebud, and Bunceton have either canceled or rescheduled firework displays due to the dry conditions.
If planning to shoot off fireworks, the state says you should:
- Keep young children away from fireworks
- Use fireworks in a large open space, clear of any flammable materials
- Have a garden hose or a bucket of water nearby in case of a fire
The Missouri Division of Fire Safety also says in 2022, 324 people in Missouri sought medical care due to fireworks. At least nine people died from fireworks in 2021 according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
