Queen Creek urges fireworks safety

The Fourth of July is quickly approaching, which means it’s time for another fireworks safety from Queen Creek.

The sale and use of legal consumer fireworks runs through July 6. Illegal fireworks are never permitted within the town limits.

Legal consumer fireworks include ground and hand-held sparkling devices. Any devices that rise into the air and explode/detonate or fly above the ground — such as sky/bottle rockets, reloadable shell devices, aerial shells and single-tube devices that are shot up into the air — are illegal, according to a town press release.

Legal consumer fireworks are only allowed on private property. Individuals who use, discharge or ignite legal fireworks are responsible and liable for any expenses that might arise if any emergency response that is required.

To reduce risks associated with fireworks, Queen Creek Fire and Medical Department has the following tips: 

• Adults should always supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees and can cause serious injuries.
• Avoid buying fireworks that come in brown paper packaging.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move back to a safe distance immediately after lighting.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• 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 fully complete their functioning, douse the spent device in a bucket of water overnight before discarding in the trash to prevent a trash fire.
• Only use legal consumer fireworks and always leave the fireworks that rise into that air (illegal for consumer use) to the professionals.

Fireworks can also pose a risk to pets and livestock. The following safety tips are recommended:

• Do not take your pet to firework displays.
• Provide a safe area away from loud noises.
• Do not place glow sticks or jewelry on your pet.
• Have your pet properly identified with a microchip and/or ID tag.
• Never use fireworks around your pet or livestock and be aware of your neighbors’ pets and livestock.

Residents who suspect illegal fireworks are being used in their neighborhoods can call the Queen creek Police Department’s non-emergency number at 480-358-3500.