Local fire company gives safety tips for fireworks
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BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Fireworks will be lighting up the sky across Western New York all weekend long. Local firefighters said this is one of the busiest times of the year for them due to an uptick in injuries and fires.
"No. 1 we see is burns," said Rich Silvaroli, former fire chief of the Frontier Volunteer Fire Company. "Someone shoots a bottle rocket or something at someone, and they get burned. Even sparklers, we've seen kids get burned."
While fireworks might look harmless once they're up in the air, improper use can cause serious harm. Silvaroli said if you're lighting them, make sure they are away from your home, cars, animals, and, of course, people.
"Also make sure that the grass that you're using is not dry because when things come out of the sky, you can start a grass fire," said Silvaroli. "If you're going to do it, maybe it'd be better off on pavement."
Sometimes fireworks might not go off as planned -- so what should you do? Silvaroli said to give them some time to cool down.
"If they have a hose, try to wet it down or just let it sit there for a good amount of time because if it didn't go off, it's probably going to be a dud," said Silvaroli. "Don't go immediately after it, let it sit."
Another helpful reminder is to not immediately throw your fireworks in a trash bin.
"We have seen in the past where people have disposed of hot fireworks in garbage cans right by their house," said Silvaroli. "The next thing you know, the garbage can is on fire in the middle of the night."
Silvaroli recommends leaving fireworks to the pros and checking out shows that are open to the public instead.
"Sit back and get a lawn chair," said Silvaroli. "It's a beautiful thing. No one gets hurt, no one gets injured, and it's a good night for all of us."
For a full list of Fourth of July events happening this weekend, click here.
Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.