Missouri State Fire Marshal Warns of Spike in Fireworks-Related Deaths, Injuries

Everyone, this year's 4th of July celebrations are showing some consequences in a very real way.  It's become a big enough deal that we have to talk about it.

Following this year’s Fourth of July celebrations, the Missouri Division of Fire Safety (DFS) is investigating a sharp increase in fires, explosions, and fatalities believed to be linked to fireworks. So far, three people have died and multiple others have sustained serious injuries. Here's what the State Fire Marshal Bean had to say about the situation.

"Tragically, we have seen more fires, explosions, injuries and deaths this July 4th holiday that appear to be related to fireworks than any other Independence Day holiday in recent memory.... Many Missourians still have fireworks that they intend to use even after July 4th. I urge everyone to be extremely cautious and responsible if they intend to use consumer fireworks, and to never attempt to make their own fireworks, which is extremely dangerous. Many people fail to understand the risk involved in fireworks because they can be purchased them at retail stores and stands. The flash powder in fireworks is highly sensitive to a variety of ignition sources, including static electricity, friction and heat. They must be handled with extreme care.”

So really, this is about  much more than some sparklers you lit in the alley.  It's very important and very serious.   People can die. 

DFS is currently assisting in five investigations where fireworks are suspected:

• Joplin (July 3): A shed explosion killed a 47-year-old man and seriously injured a juvenile girl.
• Buckner (July 4): Two people died in a house fire that began on a back deck; fireworks used the night before are suspected.
• Hannibal (July 4): A fire ignited by fireworks caused heavy damage to a multi-unit structure.
• Sibley (July 4): A garage explosion seriously injured three people; investigators suspect fireworks as the cause.
• Leadwood (July 4): An explosion during a private display injured six people, including an elderly woman.

Missourians are urged to use extreme caution when handling fireworks and to never attempt to make or modify them.  Make sure not only you, but anyone you celebrate with, only buys from licensed retailers, lights fireworks in open areas, keep water nearby, never relights duds, and never uses fireworks while drinking.

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DFS reminds the public that their team only investigates cases upon request from local authorities, so more incidents may exist.  Or you could just not create any more cases and let those fireworks go unlit.  Just saying.

Safely Yours,
Behka