Fireworks safety concerns

Fires, alcohol abuse and lost pets are expected to be major law enforcement issues over the holiday weekend.

"This is the year that everyone must be most vigilant about potential fire danger from the use of fireworks," Glenn County sheriff's Lt. Phil Revolinsky said in a statement. "Remember: Alcohol and fireworks do not mix."

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection issued a safety warning earlier this week.

"Severe burns, amputations, blindness and, in some cases, deaths are sometimes the result of Fourth of July celebrations," Specialist Kevin Colburn said.

Colburn also warned parents to monitor their children closely around fireworks.

Parents can be held liable for the cost of fighting any fires that their children start, Colburn said.

"It happens every year," Colburn said. "Kids take fireworks out into a field or vacant lot and set the grass on fire. If that fire gets away, the costs can be huge."

Willows fire Capt. Skip Sykes said only fireworks labeled "safe and sane" are legal in Glenn County, and residents need to use them in safe areas and make sure to dispose of them properly.

"Stay on concrete or in green grass," Sykes said.

Sheriff Larry Jones said he expects more local residents will stay home over the holiday due to the poor economy.

"We will have a strong presence on the street and on all of our waterways," Jones said.

Jones said one problem that seems to get worse each year on the Fourth of July are escaped house pets, especially dogs that get scared and run off during the large fireworks show at Jensen Park in Willows.

"Make sure your pet is tied up and in a safe location," Jones said, noting the taxing impact stay dogs place on animal control officers over the holiday.

"We want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday."

FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS

• Use fireworks outdoors only.

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them!

• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.

• Always have water handy; either by hose or bucket.

• Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter or combine them.

• Never re-light a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

• Adults should always supervise fireworks activities. Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.

• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

• Think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they will run loose or get injured.

Source: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection