Our Views: Be careful with fireworks
July 10, 2012
Today’s Fourth of July celebration naturally means a big focus on fireworks, but we’d like to remind readers that retail sales of fireworks are not permitted in East Baton Rouge Parish.
There are safer alternatives to personally purchased fireworks this holiday, according to the Office of the Louisiana State Fire Marshal. Public fireworks displays conducted by trained professionals are a good choice. Baton Rouge will hold its annual fireworks display along the downtown area’s Mississippi River levee tonight at 9. The event, sponsored by The Advocate and WBRZ-TV, is free and open to the public.
For residents of other parishes where retail sales of fireworks are legal, State Fire Marshal Butch Browning has a word of caution. If you do use fireworks, be extra careful.
Among his suggestions: Always read and follow the directions carefully. Have a garden hose or water bucket nearby for medical emergencies and/or to douse spent or misfired fireworks. Never point or throw fireworks at people, pets, cars or buildings.
We wish everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July today. The cause of safety is best advanced by using lots of caution with family fireworks — or, better yet, leaving the fireworks to professionals.