Use fireworks safely to avoid injury

While many families will celebrate the Fourth of July by going to the Wilson County American Legion Fairgrounds to watch a professional fireworks show, some are likely to set off fireworks of their own.

LOCAL SHOWS

Thursday’s fireworks at the fairgrounds will start around 9:15 p.m. The parking lot will open at 5. Enter Gate 2B. There’s no admission charge. There will be food trucks selling a variety of food starting at 5:30.

For those who want to venture outside Wilson, Kenly 95 Petro and the town of Kenly will present their annual fireworks show starting at 9 p.m. on the Fourth of July. The truck stop is located at 923 Johnston Parkway, Kenly.

Wilson residents will get a second chance to see fireworks in town following Saturday night’s Wilson Tobs game with the Martinsville Mustangs. The game starts at 6:30 p.m.

SAFETY TIPS

Wilson County Sheriff Calvin L. Woodard reminds residents to be mindful of fireworks safety in celebrating the nation’s 248th birthday.

The U.S. Consumer Product and Safety commission reports that nearly 13,000 fireworks-related injuries are treated each year in the country’s emergency rooms.

Wilsonians can enjoy a safe holiday by observing a few easy safety tips from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office and the National Safety Council.

• Never give fireworks to small children.

• Only let children should use fireworks with the supervision of an adult.

• Never use fireworks if you have consumed alcohol or drugs.

• Follow instructions on fireworks packaging.

• Never hold lit fireworks in your hands.

• Never light fireworks indoors.

• Keep a supply of water close by as a precautionary measure when using fireworks.

• Use eye protection if you are lighting fireworks.

• Use ear protection for young children.

• Only light fireworks one at a time.

• Don’t attempt to relight if a firework does not light properly. Douse with water and discard.

• Don’t throw or point fireworks at people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.

• Leave any area where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.

• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before throwing them away.

• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place that is away from pets and children.

• Never use illegal fireworks.

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