|
NEWS RELEASE
Date: June 20, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
REMINDER: ALL FIREWORKS ARE ILLEGAL IN WINDSOR
Windsor, CA—Windsor Fire Protection District officials want to
remind Windsor-area residents that all fireworks (including “safe
and sane” fireworks and sparklers) are illegal in Windsor—both
within the Town limits and in the surrounding unincorporated areas.
Officials warn that fire conditions are extreme this year. The
exceptionally high weeds that resulted from last season’s record
rainfall, combined with high temperatures, low humidity and wind,
create a recipe for disaster. “When you consider these conditions
and that we have only two firefighters on duty,” says Fire Chief Ron
Collier, “it’s a scary scenario. We most likely will not be able to
contain a fire while it is still small. We absolutely need the
public’s help in reducing the likelihood of a fire.”
Fireworks, even the safe and sane ones, are dangerous. According to
the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, 8 deaths were
associated with fireworks in 2004, 9600 people sustained injuries
requiring emergency room treatment (6,000 of these between June 19
and July 19, 2004), and 40 percent of the injuries occurred to
children under 15. Sparklers accounted for almost half of the
injuries in children less than 5. Hands and eyes were the most
commonly injured body parts.
In addition to the potential danger to life and limb, those using
any fireworks can be held responsible for all costs associated with
any fire that results, including the cost of fighting the fire,
which can be tens of thousands of dollars.
“We want everyone to have a great 4th of July holiday,” comments
Chief Ron Collier, “and we want them to be safe. The Town of Windsor
is planning an event-filled weekend for of the 4th, including its
annual fireworks show on Monday, July 3. We strongly encourage
everyone to celebrate by attending these events.”
###
Contact: Battalion Chief Matt Gustafson
Office: 707/838-1170
FAX: 707/838-1173
E-mail:
mgustafston@windsorfpd.com
|
|
|
