Fireworks and campfires pose wildfire risks year-round, and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Florida Forest Service is providing tips for a safe New Year.
Individuals should check with local laws before using fireworks. Local fire and police departments and the state Fire Marshal’s Office can also provide guidance. People planning to use fireworks should follow these safety tips:
- Follow all county or city fireworks laws;
- Light fireworks on a cleared area free of any vegetation or debris;
- Remove any debris from roofs or decks where fireworks could land;
- Always have a water source available in case of a fire;
- Aim fireworks away from people, homes and wooded areas;
- Do not allow young children to light or handle fireworks;
- Never use homemade fireworks;
- Discard used fireworks in a bucket of water;
- Store unused fireworks and lighters out of the reach of children;
- Clean up all debris from fireworks; and
- Report any fires immediately to 911.
Since Jan. 1, 2017, 2,917 wildfires have burned more than 201,171 acres across Florida.
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 on more than 26 million acres.
For statewide wildfire updates and additional wildfire information, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
