-BY JENNIFER ARGUE, Local Journalism Initiative reporter
June 4, 2022
The Fire Department’s Facebook account reported that at around 10:30 pm on Saturday, the Silton Fire Dept responded to the Resort of Sundale for a grass fire.
“Upon arrival, crews located a grass fire which had been partially extinguished. Firefighters contained the remainder of the fire and confirmed that the cause was due to fireworks being set off in the field.”
Captain Corrie Coons with the Department said there were no injuries or damage to property due to the fire. She had some basic safety precautions people should know when using fireworks.
- Check with local bylaws if permits are required and if you don’t know, ASK.
- Choose the right location. Such as an open, flat nonflammable surface such as dirt, concrete or sand.
- Avoid areas with trees, grass or buildings that could catch fire.
- Wait for appropriate weather conditions - a calm day. Wind can push sparks outside the safety perimeter.
- Make a safety perimeter of at least 150 feet around where you are setting off the fireworks with only authorized people allowed in.
- Use only legal fireworks and follow the instructions on the box.
- Have a plan in place. Keep a bucket of water, a hose rakes and shovels handy if you need to use them.
- Don’t ever hold onto a firework, and don’t trim the fuses. They are that length for a reason.
- After lighting a firework, get out of the way as fast as possible.
- Supervise children in the area and ensure they remain outside the safety zone.
- If you have a dud firework, don’t try to reignite it. Don’t approach it for 15-20 minutes and place it in a metal bucket full of water.
- To Dispose of spent fireworks, DON’T throw them directly in the garbage. Place them in a metal bucket full of water to soak overnight before disposing of them.
- Never handle fireworks if you are under the influence, as it can endanger the safety of yourself and others.
- Complete a check of the area to ensure there aren’t any remaining embers.
- Wear personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, gloves, fireproof cover-alls and closed-toe shoes.
In the end, Captain Coons says, “It’s best to leave it to the professionals.”
Note: These reports are abridged for content
