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SARASOTA – 180 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the daily July 4th Holiday.

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go visit a municipal or a private display that is being put on for the public to come and view because then you know that it is being conducted by professionals that have safety measures in effect,” said Sarasota County Battalion Chief, Travis Dagenais. 

And if you choose to do fireworks on your private property, it is a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby   

“Ensure that when conducting the ground fireworks that they are well away from a building I think a good rule of thumb that is recommended is leave at least 35 feet for all ground-based fireworks.”

Ground fireworks should be done on a hard concrete surface, away from brush or grass, which could potentially catch on fire as a result of the sparks.

“Responsible adults should be the only ones doing the fireworks because even though they seem pretty benign, any firework can pose a hazard to health, or potentially catch something on fire,” said Dagenais.  

And if you are planning on grilling, make sure it is done outdoors and ensure all pets, kids and people at least 10 feet away from the grill  

“Especially if it is charcoal, embers can spark out occasionally and fly a few feet, so the further the better but 10 feet is probably a good rule of thumb to start with,” said Dagenais. 

It is also important to mindful of your surroundings while grilling, making sure nothing is coming in contact with any burning surfaces. And when you are done grilling, it is a good idea to shut off the grill and the gas at its source.  Florida Highway Patrol wants to remind everyone to plan ahead to ensure you get home safely   

“We’re giving this warning now, we will be out, we will be looking for impaired driving and please understand there are no warnings for impaired driving, there is no such thing as buzzed driving, you will go to jail. Make a good decision, plan ahead, and get to your destination safely,” said Florida Highway Patrol State Trooper, Kenn Watson. 

Sarasota Police Department, along with law enforcement nationwide, will be focusing on keeping boaters safe, and prevent boating under the influence as part of Operation Dry Water weekend.

Remember to boat sober, and wear your life jacket.