As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, local residents are reminded that the sale and use of fireworks are regulated by the City of Mt. Juliet. Fireworks can add to the exciting celebrations, but if they are not used safely, fireworks can cause severe burns, damage to the eyes, and even death. It is essential that everyone uses fireworks safely, especially given the warmer temperatures and drying conditions taking place across the Middle Tennessee area. The Fourth of July is responsible for many burn injuries that are associated with premature detonation or misuse of fireworks. Most firework burn injuries occur with children. These injuries usually include burns to the hands and eyes causing vision impairment. Firework related injuries can be avoided, and the Mt. Juliet Police Department urges residents to follow safety tips and to be careful during their holiday celebrations.

In Mt. Juliet, it is unlawful to sell or use fireworks in the city except from June 20th through July 5th and December 10th through January 2nd. During this holiday season, fireworks cannot be discharged or used between the hours of 10 p.m. - 10 a.m. In addition, fireworks cannot be sold or given to any person under the age of 18. It is permissible for juveniles to use fireworks only if a parent is supervising the activity. Failure to comply with Mt. Juliet's City Code regulating fireworks could result in a $188 fine.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in the hopes that injuries can be greatly reduced:

• Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
• Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
• Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
• Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.
• Know your fireworks. Read the caution label before igniting.
• Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
• Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
• Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives: They can kill you!
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.

Note these special safety tips, if using sparklers:

• Always remain standing while using sparklers.
• Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
• Never hold, or light, more than one sparkler at a time.
• Never throw sparklers.
• Sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop spent sparklers in a bucket of water.
• Teach children not to wave sparklers, or run, while holding sparklers.

Anyone with any information on current investigations or ongoing crime trends is encouraged to call the Mt. Juliet Police Department at 615-754-2550. Information can also be given anonymously by calling 615-754-TIPS (8477) or via the Mt. Juliet Police Department website.

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