As residents and visitors prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the Lander Volunteer Fire Department encourages everyone to prioritize safety while enjoying Fourth of July festivities. By taking a few simple precautions, community members can help prevent fires, injuries, and property damage while ensuring a safe and enjoyable holiday for all.
Fireworks are a long-standing tradition of Independence Day celebrations, but they can also pose significant risks when used improperly or in unsafe conditions. The department reminds residents to use only legal fireworks, carefully follow all manufacturer instructions, and select a safe discharge area well away from homes, vehicles, dry vegetation, utility infrastructure, and other combustible materials.
“The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and neighbors, and we want everyone to enjoy the holiday safely,” said Chris Johnson, Airport and Fire Hall Facilities Manager. “Simple steps such as choosing a safe location, keeping water nearby, and remaining attentive while using fireworks can make a big difference in preventing fires and injuries. We all share a responsibility to help protect our community, our homes, and our first responders during the holiday.”
The department also encourages residents to be mindful of current weather and environmental conditions before using fireworks. Windy conditions, dry vegetation, and accumulated yard debris can significantly increase the risk of accidental fires. Property owners are encouraged to maintain their properties by mowing grass, removing dead vegetation, and creating defensible space around homes, garages, sheds, and other structures.
When using fireworks, adults should closely supervise all activities and ensure spectators remain a safe distance away. Water sources, such as a charged garden hose or buckets of water, should be readily available, and at least one working fire extinguisher should be easily accessible. Following fireworks activities, residents should inspect the area for smoldering grass, hot debris, or other signs of fire and continue monitoring the area for at least 30 minutes.
In the event of a fire, residents should act quickly and call 911 immediately if the fire cannot be controlled with available resources, if a structure or vegetation catches fire, or if someone is injured. Clearly visible address numbers and unobstructed access routes can help emergency responders locate incidents and provide assistance more quickly.
While many families enjoy celebrating at home, the Lander Volunteer Fire Department reminds residents that the safest fireworks displays are those conducted by trained professionals. Community members are encouraged to attend public fireworks displays whenever possible and to celebrate responsibly throughout the holiday weekend.
The Lander Volunteer Fire Department wishes everyone a safe, memorable, and enjoyable Fourth of July.