PHOENIX — The Fourth of July is fast approaching and fireworks sales have started, but firefighters want people to remember to stay safe while celebrating.
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Captain Rob McDade, spokesperson for the Phoenix Fire Department, said residents should be aware certain fireworks are illegal in the city.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: Conozca las reglas y evite riesgos en las festividades del 4 de julio
"If they are aerial, if they get shot up into the air, that's an illegal firework," said.
McDade fireworks not only are aerial fireworks illegal, but they cause concern because no one knows where the fireworks will land.
The city of Phoenix has a chart to determine if a firework is legal or illegal to use in the city:
However, he emphasized full caution should be exercised, even if the firework is approved by the city.
"Always know where your fireworks are, have a source of water nearby, " McDade said. "Don't give them to the kids who are under 15 and tell them to run off. We still need adult supervision."
In addition, McDade said it's best to soak used fireworks in a bucket of water to reduce the risk of accidental fires during disposal.
Sgt. Rob Sherer, spokesperson for the Phoenix Fire Department, said using a gun in celebration of the holiday is discouraged and cited Shannon's Law.
"There [are] legal fireworks, if you like that sound and you want to have that excitement, we have that available for you. Sherer said. "Don't use a gun. It is a class 6 felony."
Sherer stressed not to approach a person holding a gun and urged to call 9-1-1 instead.
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