WILLMAR - The Minnesota State Fire Marshal is urging citizens to avoid injuries by using legal fireworks safely and remembering key safety tips.
"Traditionally, we celebrate generations of independence by allowing our children to play with wires coated with explosives that burn at 2,000 degrees," says State Fire Marshal Jerry Rosendahl, "but there are no other circumstances under which we'd let our children anywhere near these things. Fireworks are not toys. They require strict attention to be used safely."
According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, about 10,000 Americans were treated for fireworks injuries last year, and 11 deaths were attributed to fireworks nationwide. Minnesota law forbids use of fireworks that explode or leave the ground.
Sparklers, snakes, fountains and other non-airborne items are legal, but require caution and close supervision.
