Newsroom
For Immediate Release
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Northern Virginia Hosts Fireworks Safety Demonstration
For information contact: Captain Tom Polera, 703-228-4644
On Thursday, June 29, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. fire officials from Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties along with several other Northern Virginia jurisdictions will conduct a fireworks safety demonstration at the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Training Academy, 4600 West Ox Road. The safety demonstration will provide the media an opportunity to view legal and illegal fireworks, and witness the dangers associated with handling fireworks. Fire marshals will also be on hand to address the dangers associated with the use of illegal fireworks, and to show how fireworks are mishandled and improperly used.
Many fireworks are not available in Northern Virginia because they are illegal. Firecrackers, cherry bombs, and skyrockets are just a few examples of fireworks which may be purchased in other areas but are illegal in Virginia. Since even the possession of unapproved fireworks is prohibited, such fireworks will be confiscated and persons possessing them may be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. This carries a maximum penalty of a $2,500 fine and/or one year in jail. All fireworks, that explode, emit a flame, sparks, or performs as a projectile higher than 12 feet, are prohibited in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The safest way to prevent fireworks-related injuries and property damage is to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals. However, if you plan to discharge approved (legal) fireworks, please adhere to the following safety guidelines:
- Always read all warnings and instructions.
- Only approved fireworks may be discharged.
- Do not permit young children to handle or light fireworks. (Sparklers can reach a temperature of 1800 degrees Fahrenheit.)
- When igniting fireworks, place them on a flat surface, clear of any combustible material and clear of all buildings.
- Never ignite fireworks while holding them.
- Keep a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
- Never try to relight fireworks that have not functioned properly.
- Spectators, especially children, should be kept back from the display at a safe distance, usually 15-20 feet at a minimum.
The theme for this year’s fireworks safety demonstration is “Be prepared, Be safe, and Be Responsible.”
Arlington, Va., is a world-class residential, business and tourist location that was originally part of the "10 miles square" parcel of land surveyed in 1791 to be the Nation's Capital. It is the geographically smallest self-governing county in the United States, occupying slightly less than 26 square miles. Arlington maintains a rich variety of stable neighborhoods, quality schools and enlightened land use, and received the Environmental Protection Agency's highest award for "Smart Growth" in 2002. Home to some of the most influential organizations in the world - including the Pentagon - Arlington stands out as one of America's preeminent places to live, visit and do business.
