BROWARD COUNTY, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2024) — BSO wished you a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration! Remember to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals for your safety.

The Broward County Sheriff Fire Rescue, in collaboration with BSO’s Bomb Squad, will be hosting a media safety demonstration at the Broward Fire Academy on Monday, July 1, 2024, at 10 a.m. They will showcase the dangers of illegal fireworks and mishandling legal sparklers, emphasizing the potential risks of injuries, fires and even fatalities. During the demonstration, melons will be used as props to illustrate these hazards. It’s important to note that in Florida, there are limited legal consumer fireworks available, such as sparklers that can reach temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit—posing significant risks of severe burns or permanent injuries.

Fireworks are responsible for an average of 20,000 reported fires each year in the United States, as stated by the National Fire Protection Association. Independence Day typically sees a higher number of reported fires compared to any other day.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that around 250 individuals visit emergency rooms daily due to fireworks related injuries in the days leading up to the Fourth of July holiday.
In Florida, both the Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigation and Broward Sheriff Fire Marshal’s Bureau conduct inspections on roadside fireworks stands. It’s important to also remember the risks associated with celebratory gunfire. Not only is firing a gun into the air illegal, but it poses significant danger as falling bullets can be fatal.

To reach the fire academy, follow these directions; Take Interstate 595 to Davie Road, proceed south on Davie Road. Then turn right (west) onto Nova Drive/S.W. 24 Street and make a left (south) onto S.W. 71 Terrace.
Areas served include Cooper City, Dania Beach, Deerfield Beach, Hallandale Beach, Hillsboro Beach, Lauderdale Lakes, Pembroke Park, West Park, Weston, Ft. Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades, Broward Municipal Services District and the Everglades.

Remember; Smoke alarms play a crucial role in saving lives!