July 4th Celebration Safety Reminder

The Greenville City Fire Department is encouraging residents to safely celebrate July 4th holiday weekend. Instead of using fireworks, fire officials are encouraging residents to find an alternative way to get into the patriotic spirit.

“With many professional fireworks shows being canceled this year, it is more important than ever to remind residents that celebration often turns into tragedy with the improper use of fireworks,” said Fire Marshal Tristan Johnson.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually and fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year.

“If residents choose to use fireworks, we want to make sure they make informed purchases and take the appropriate precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe,” said Johnson. “We also want to remind residents of the City’s fireworks ordinance.”

The city of Greenville in November 2019 passed an ordinance prohibiting individuals from using, discharging, shooting, or igniting any fireworks or similar explosives between the hours of 10 p.m. and 9 a.m.; however, the ordinance includes an exception that allows extended hours for New Year’s Eve and July 4^th. As a result, the discharge of fireworks in the city of Greenville is prohibited after 12:30 a.m. Saturday night. 

Johnson also added that you must be 16 or older to purchase fireworks, and you should only purchase them from an approved fireworks retailer. Fireworks cannot be sold from a tent or vehicle, and all fireworks stand must be inspected by the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Greenville City Fire Department Fireworks Safety Tips

• Only buy fireworks from retailers permitted through the Fire Marshal’s Office
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place
• Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks
• Use common sense and always read and follow the directions on each firework
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees
• Light one firework at a time and keep a safe distance
• Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks
• Never give fireworks to small children
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse
• Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
• Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and keep a garden hose on hand