The Fourth of July traditionally presents the biggest fire danger to citizens and is the cause of a great number of fires and burn injuries due to fireworks.

Fireworks include devices which make a visible or audible effect when set off and the Coppell ordinance specifically outlaws possession and use of fireworks.

Most fires occur in dry brush and grass, but homes can be destroyed or damaged on this holiday.  Fires are caused by careless handling of fireworks in areas exposed to sparks or live fireworks.

Nationally, more than $36 million in property is damaged each year due to fireworks.  The Fourth of July also is responsible for many burn injuries associated with premature detonation or misuse of fireworks.  These are only the numbers of fireworks injuries reported to hospital emergency rooms.  Because many injuries are not treated in emergency rooms, experts believe the total number of fireworks injuries may be far more.

Most fireworks burn injuries involve children.  These are usually burns to the hands and eyes causing vision impairment and disfiguring scars.  Sparklers are the biggest danger to children.  A tip temperature at the end of the sparkler reaches 1800 degrees Fahrenheit and can easily cause a burn.  Yes, people can die from fireworks and the fires they cause.  In 1985, 26 people were killed this way.  That's a large improvement compared to 1902, when fireworks were legal in most states.  In that year, fireworks and fireworks-related fires killed more than 200 people.  The City of Coppell explicitly prohibits the sale or use of any fireworks.

Use or possession of fireworks is a fine of up to $2,000 (possibly higher if the fireworks start a fire) and confiscation of remaining fireworks.  Only those people with special licenses are allowed "controlled" fireworks displays.  They take extensive precautions to ensure a safe, yet exciting show.  Citizens who have fireworks, which are illegal, may turn them in to any fire station without penalty.  Citizens who wish to report illegal use of fireworks should call 9-1-1.  Some people think that just because some fireworks are legal in some states, they are more safe.  The largest share of fireworks injuries are caused by Class C fireworks, the kind that are legal in many states.

Leave fireworks to the professionals.

Restrictions on fireworks are for a good cause.  No matter how small or large a firework may be, it is a potential fire starter.  But it is still possible to celebrate and enjoy the holiday.  Families can consult the newspaper or local activity calendar and attend one of several approved, licensed fireworks displays around the Metroplex.