HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio) - Connecticut fire officials are urging residents to be safe this 4th of July weekend when being around fireworks.
"This time of year is always busy for fire departments," Connecticut Fire Academy Public Information Officer Alan Zygmunt said. "Fireworks are a critical cause of injuries around the Independence Day holiday."
The Connecticut Commission on Fire Prevention and Control and the Connecticut Office of the State Fire Marshal shared that about 200 Americans are injured daily by fireworks around the July 4th holiday, according to the US Fire Administration.
Also, about 36% of all injuries by fireworks are to children under the age of 15, US Fire Administration statistics show.
Zygmunt and other fire officials remind residents that fireworks are illegal in the State of Connecticut.
Sgt. Dawn Pagan with the Connecticut State Police suggests going to city or town-sponsored firework shows.
"Leave it to the professionals. Go to a show, go enjoy the show and leave it up to them," Pagan said.
It's also important, fire officials and medical experts said, to keep children several feet away from lit fireworks due to the dangers they pose.
Fire officials also said fireworks should never be lit indoors or near dry grass, so as to prevent fires.
While Sparklers and Fountains are allowed, safety officials said they should should only be used by people 16 years or older.
They should also be used carefully and away from children. Connecticut Children's Trauma Surgeon Dr. Steven Rogers said sparklers are a common source of injury among kids in the summer.
Due to the hot sparks, Rogers said sparklers can cause permanent eye or burn injuries.
Additional fireworks safety information is available through the National Fire Protection Association.