MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As Independence Day celebrations approach, the Hutchinson Fire Department is encouraging residents to enjoy the holiday safely by taking precautions with both fireworks and backyard grills.
Fire Chief Jeremy Unruh and Division Chief of Operations Justin Holzrichter said many holiday fires are preventable with a few simple safety measures.
Fireworks sales begin this weekend, but within the City of Hutchinson, fireworks may only be discharged from June 30 through July 4, between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. Officials also remind residents that fireworks may only be used on private property. Shooting fireworks in streets, parking lots or around apartment complexes is prohibited. Bottle rockets and sky lanterns are also banned because they present significant fire hazards.
One of the biggest mistakes people make comes after the fireworks show is over.
Chief Unruh said spent fireworks often retain enough heat to ignite trash when they're immediately thrown into garbage cans. Since many trash containers are stored next to homes, those fires can quickly spread to structures.
Instead, firefighters recommend placing used fireworks in a bucket of water and allowing them to soak overnight before disposal. They also caution that aerial fireworks can travel unpredictably, landing on rooftops, dry grass or other combustible materials.
The department is also reminding residents to practice safe grilling during the holiday.
Officials recommend placing grills at least 10 feet away from homes and other structures, particularly when wind is blowing toward the house. Gas grill users should always open the lid before lighting the grill to prevent a buildup of combustible gas.
Firefighters also encourage keeping a fire extinguisher nearby whenever grilling and ensuring charcoal briquettes are completely cooled and soaked with water before throwing them away.
"Just like fireworks, we recommend making sure that they're cold and wet overnight before you dispose of them," Holzrichter said of charcoal coals.
With thousands of residents expected to celebrate outdoors over the Fourth of July holiday, the Hutchinson Fire Department says a little extra caution can help prevent injuries, structure fires and emergency calls while allowing everyone to enjoy the festivities safely.