Stay Safe This Fourth of July

As many of you prepare to head out for your Fourth of July activities, it seems to be as good a time as any to pass along a few safety tips to keep your celebrations from turning into tragedies. These tips, like the break-in prevention tips last time, come to us from Sheriff Leo Mioduszewski and the rest of the folks at the Isabella County Sheriff's Department, who want you to stay safe when using fireworks this Independence Day.

There are two classes of fireworks: Class B is manufactured for use in professional displays, like those put on by cities or townships. These fireworks are illegal in the state of Michigan without a permit. Class C fireworks, however, are the kind commonly sold in stores for consumer use. Examples of these include paper caps, toy trick noise makers, sparklers, fountains, toy snakes, and toy smoke devices. Those are legal.

The litmus test to determine whether or not your fireworks are Class B or Class C is simple: if it makes a loud bang or leaves the ground, it is illegal.

Here are some further guidelines for the safe use of fireworks for at-home displays:

• Stay away from illegal explosives.
• Obey the local laws and use common sense.
• Read the fireworks instructions and follow them - if an item appears damaged, don't use it!
• Buy fireworks only from reputable, established dealers. Legal fireworks are tested as to quality and safety. You should never attempt to build your own fireworks or use illegal explosives such as M-80s or "Cherry Bombs".
• A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks usage. Children should watch, but not handle, fireworks. When used properly, all fireworks can be safe.
• Fireworks are meant to be used one at a time. Do not attempt to combine or mix fireworks at the same time, as fuses have different burn rates.
• Fireworks should never be pointed at or thrown at anyone. Make sure that people and animals are a safe distance away from fireworks being set off. Use them only outdoors, and away from houses and vehicles.
• Alcohol and fireworks don't mix.
• Caution is important. use protective eye wear and keep a water hose nearby. Don't try to re-light a dud; soak it in water and let it sit for fifteen minutes before disposing of it.

Keep it safe and fun this Independence Day. If you have any other questions or for more information, contact Sheriff Leo Mioduszewski at (989) 772-5911.