With the 4th of July quickly approaching and the sale of fireworks in Iowa in full swing, Knoxville Fire and Rescue is advising residents to properly store their fireworks as well giving helpful safety tips to keep residents safe during Independence Day celebrations. Knoxville Fire and Rescue Chief Cal Wyman tells KNIA/KRLS News residents should not store fireworks in their homes in a place close to a heat source as they are obviously combustible and an expulsion threat. 

When it comes to backyard 4th of July celebrations, Chief Wyman says sparklers are just as dangerous if not more dangerous than other fireworks. He says sparklers can burn up to 1800 degrees and can cause major burn injuries. Chief Wyman says when it comes to using sparklers people need to remember to have a water source close and to not drop them in the yard where someone else could possibly step on them. He says when it comes to all fireworks, proper safety precautions need to be taken and parents need to always keep an eye on their children using them. 

To hear the complete interview with Chief Cal Wyman regarding 4th of July safety, tune in to today’s Let’s Talk Knoxville.