As our nation’s 238th birthday approaches, thoughts turn to picnics in the park, camping, family barbecues, and of course the ever-popular fireworks displays. California is in a severe drought, and fire conditions are already extreme and Fairfield is surrounded by dry, flammable vegetation. More fires occur on this holiday than any other single day of the year. The Fairfield Fire Department and the Fairfield Police Department would like to remind everyone to celebrate the 4th of July safely.
All Fireworks, even those designated as “Safe and Sane” are prohibited in the City of Fairfield. The sale, use or discharge of any fireworks is a violation of the City Code and State Law. You can be cited or arrested, fined, and your fireworks will be seized.
You can drop off fireworks at any City of Fairfield Fire Station’s for safe disposal.
http://www.fairfield.ca.gov/gov/depts/fire/stations/default.asp
This year, celebrate the 4th of July at one of the local events that feature professional fireworks shows. Don’t risk it; let the Pro’s do it!
Start your Day in Downtown Fairfield for the Annual 4th of July Parade.
Then visit the all day celebration at the Suisun Waterfront from 11am until 10:30 pm with fireworks show kicking off at about 9:15pm.
The celebration starts in Vacaville at the Creekwalk at 5:00pm with music by the Time Bandits at 6:30 and a Firework Spectacular at Andrews Park at 9:20pm.
Benicia celebrates all day at City Park, with fireworks at 9:00pm at the Waterfront.
Vallejo will celebrate with its 4th of July Parade at 10:00am, with a fireworks display at the waterfront at 9:15pm.
Fireworks are synonymous with our celebration of Independence Day. Yet, the thrill of fireworks can also bring pain. On average, 240 people go the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday.
In 2011, fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 reported fires, including 1,200 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 40 civilian injuries and $32 million in direct property damage
If your family is going to grill or camp this holiday weekend, be sure to observe the following safety tips –
Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venture tubes – where the air and gas mix are not blocked.
Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a grill.
Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flames can flashback up into the container and explode.
Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children around outdoor grills.
Dispose of hot coals properly – douse them with plenty of water, and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
Never grill in enclosed areas
Make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop, and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 911 or your local emergency number if a burn warrants serious medical attention.
Remember to also take care of your pets this 4th of July.
Do not take your pets to fireworks displays or leave them alone in the car.
Keep your pets in a comfortable and quiet area during 4th of July festivities. If your pet is crate trained, then their crate is a great choice.
Be sure to remove any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed. Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep your pet company if you won't be home.
Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets that normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape and become lost, or become entangled in their chain, risking injury or death.
By following these simple precautions, everyone in the family can enjoy a safe 4th of July celebration.
