Bartlesville’s boom ban: Fire Marshal reminds citizens fireworks in town are duds

With Independence Day approaching, Americans look forward to the sacred tradition of blowing a part of it up.

Whether it's bottle rockets, Black Cats or m80s, Bartlesville's Fire Marshal, Brady Watson, has issued a reminder that fireworks are banned within the city limits.

"Fireworks, which include any device that shoots into the air or makes a noise, are strictly prohibited within the city limits of Bartlesville," he wrote. "However, novelty items such as sparklers, snaps, and snakes are permitted."

Watson explained that only professional fireworks displays conducted by licensed companies with trained personnel are allowed in Bartlesville with a permit. Unlike some cities around Oklahoma, Bartlesville does not issue permits to individuals.

Residents are advised to report any fireworks-related nuisances to the non-emergency number, 918-331-4001, rather than using the emergency 911 line, which should be reserved for actual emergencies.

Fireworks harm thousands in the US every year

Everyone wants to have a good time during the Fourth, but the reality is that fireworks are explosive devices that can wound, maim and kill if not taken seriously.

The United States Consumer Protection Agency estimates more than 10,000 Americans were injured by fireworks last year , with 70% happening around the Fourth of July. They also reported 11 non-occupational deaths related to fireworks last year.

The National Safety Council (NSC) emphasizes the importance of safety precautions for those planning to use consumer fireworks. Even in areas where fireworks are legal, it's crucial to follow specific guidelines to prevent accidents and injuries.

Once lit, fireworks should never be held in your hands. Fireworks should always be lit outdoors, far from people and homes, and away from flammable materials. An estimated 19,000 fires are started every year by fireworks .

Keep a safe distance after lighting fireworks. Never point or throw fireworks at another person. Light one firwork at a time.

If a firework fails to go off, don't attempt to re-lit or handle it. Keep a bucket of water nearby to soak and drown spent, unused or dud fireworks.

Just because the city allows sparkers in town, it's important to remember that sparkers can be just as dangerous if not more than typical fireworks because parents often let young children hold them.

Sparklers can burn at over 2,000 degrees — hot enough to melt metal and glass. The National Fire Protection Association reports that sparklers account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks-related injuries, with nearly half of these injuries affecting children under five years old.

Safer alternatives to giving kids fireworks

Given the risks, consider using safer celebration alternatives, such as glow sticks, confetti poppers, or colored streamers for young children. These options provide fun without the associated dangers of sparklers and fireworks.

Families can forgo lighting their own fireworks and attend the professional fireworks show at Sooner Park during the Bartlesville 4th of July Freedom Fest, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Bartlesville.

"Let's all work together to maintain a safe environment for everyone in Bartlesville," Watson said. "Thank you for your cooperation, and have a wonderful and safe holiday season."

This article originally appeared on Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise: Bartlesville’s boom ban: Fire Marshal reminds citizens fireworks in town are duds