July 03, 2023
State fire and environmental officials are urging everyone to stay safe during the July 4 holiday, emphasizing fireworks safety amid the ongoing drought conditions and elevated wildfire risks.
The message is particularly timely, as a dry season has led to more wildfires (1,400) this year than all of 2022 (1,036), state officials said.
“While we remind residents every year that fireworks are not toys, this year has the added risk of inadvertently setting off a wildfire due to lack of rain and dry conditions throughout the state,” State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook said in a statement. “The safest way to enjoy fireworks during Independence Day is to enjoy fireworks displays managed by professionals.”
Here’s what you need to know:
The CDC also notes the importance of protecting your hearing and the benefits of wearing earplugs or earmuffs during fireworks shows.
HAP encourages everyone to have safe, happy, and healthy July 4 holiday. Additional safety tips and information from the Shapiro administration are available online.
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