STATE FIRE MARSHAL ISSUES SAFETY
REMINDER TO IOWAN'S REGARDING FIREWORKS

The Iowa Department of Public Safety, State Fire Marshal's Division, would like to remind the citizens of Iowa that the only fireworks legally allowed for use in Iowa are:

• Sparklers on wires,
• Flitter sparklers in paper tubes that do not exceed 1/8 of an inch in diameter,
• Toy snakes or caps used in cap pistols.

While these items are purchased for the families' enjoyment, they can present a hazard. When using these items please remember the following tips:

• Do not allow small children to use them.
• Older children need supervision of an adult
• Never point any of these devices at anyone or anyone's property
• Never use any of these items around dry materials that could be ignited by the sparks.
  

According to statistics compiled by the Iowa Department of Public Health, of the 10 largest hospitals in Iowa reporting, 6 Iowan's were treated last year for injuries received as the result of fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday.

Jim Kenkel, State Fire Marshal states "We encourage individuals and families that enjoy fireworks to attend a sponsored fireworks display in your area during the Fourth of July Holiday."

For Additional Information:

http://www.fireworksafety.com/classroom/index.html