Jun 30, 2022

Make sure to be safe this Fourth of July weekend St. Joseph fire officials say

Posted Jun 30, 2022 4:52 PM

By MATT PIKE 

St. Joseph Post 

As fireworks fill the sky and are fired off through this Fourth of July holiday weekend, the St. Joseph Fire Department wants you to practice firework safety. 

Assistant Fire Chief Jamey McVicker says around this time the fire department responds to many fires caused by fireworks. 

"Luckily, in my experience, St. Joe has been very good as far as being safe with their fireworks," McVicker tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  

But even as safe as most people are, McVicker still has some tips on how to protect yourself from danger.  

"Wear snug clothing to make sure your arms and legs are covered and that they're not loose to where they can catch fire," McVicker says. "We also encourage you to wear shoes and eye protection and tie your hair back, for females especially, when that hair drapes down." 

McVicker says you should also keep your head and body from leaning over fireworks.   

The St. Joseph Fire Department is urging everyone to fire off their fireworks safely, during this Fourth of July weekend.  

Assistant Fire Chief Jamey McVicker says when firing off your fireworks, you should also make sure to cover up your hands and face. 

"Hands and face are two of the most commonly injured parts of the body when fireworks happen," McVicker explains. "So, what we like to tell people is know a little bit of first aid beforehand, that way you can help out anybody." 

As you purchase fireworks for the Fourth of July holiday, be sure to keep in mind the laws inside city limits.  

McVicker says ariel projectile fireworks in St. Joseph are illegal. He says many fireworks fires he's worked on have been from aerial fireworks.  

"Several of those were caused from a firework dropping on top of the roof and they just weren't spotted until they create quite the flame so a lot of damage is caused," McVicker says. "So, that's the number one reason we don't like aerial fireworks is cause they fall on top of a roof and nobody sees it until it's way too late." 

McVicker adds that if there is any danger that comes from your fireworks don't be afraid to call the fire department. 

"I would rather play it safe than have somebody's house burn so if there's any worry at all please call 9-1-1 we'll come whether it's an emergency or not an emergency, we'll come out either way," he says." 

Fireworks can be fired off in St. Joseph, beginning Friday through the 4th any time before 1opm.