Wilton Simpson, Florida Forest Service offers fire safety tips for Fourth of July celebrations

Fireworks on the Fourth of July are as American as apple pie, but failing to take the threats they pose seriously could turn a patriotic celebration into tragedy. 

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson and the Florida Forest Service are encouraging Floridians to exercise caution when making fires or using fireworks. 

“With Florida’s year-round wildfire season and our fire-prone vegetation, there is always a risk of wildfire,” Simpson said. “As we gather with friends and family to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday — with cookouts, campouts, fireworks —  I’m urging all Floridians to use fire and fireworks responsibly, because we all have a role in keeping our communities and our first responders safe from wildfire.”

Added Florida Forest Service Director Rick Dolan: “The potential for wildfires is always increased with backyard burning and the use of fireworks. Please be aware of your surroundings, especially when using fireworks near brush or wooded areas.”

Simpson and Dolan urge Floridians to check local laws and regulations before using fireworks. That information can be obtained from local fire and police departments and the State Fire Marshal’s Office. If celebrating with fireworks, grills, or campfires, residents should: 

— Light fireworks in a cleared area free of vegetation or dry debris.

— Clear debris from around campfires, grills and all fire sources.

— Remove debris from any location where fireworks could land.

— Always have a water source available.

— Aim fireworks away from people, homes and wooded areas.

— Never use homemade fireworks.

— Discard used fireworks in a bucket of water.

— Store unused fireworks, matches and lighters out of the sight and reach of children.

— Never leave a fire unattended and ensure it is completely out before leaving it.

— Report any fire immediately to 9-1-1.

It’s also important to be aware of current wildfire conditions, which can be checked at FDACS.gov/CurrentWildfires.

The Florida Forest Service, a division of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, manages more than 1 million acres of state forests and provides forest management assistance on more than 17 million acres of private and community forests. The Florida Forest Service is also responsible for protecting homes, forestland and natural resources from the devastating effects of wildfire.