Fourth of July weekend is almost upon us, and one favorite tradition is to catch an exciting fireworks display. But we’d just like to offer a quick reminder to leave the fireworks to the experienced.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2019 Fireworks Annual Report, “Fireworks were involved with an estimated 10,000 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency  departments during calendar year 2019 (95 percent confidence interval 7,100 –  12,900). The  estimated rate of fireworks -related, emergency department-treated injuries  in the United States is  3.1 per 100,000 individuals.”

Furthermore, the same report revealed that, “An estimated 7,300 fireworks-related injuries (or 73 percent of the total estimated fireworks-related injuries in 2019) were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments during the 1-month special study period between June 21, 2019 and July 21, 2019.”

In addition to fireworks being dangerous to those without the experience of handling them, in many cases, people are breaking the law.

Last Friday, the Village of Liberty Police Department sent out a press release noting that they’ve received an increased number of complaints regarding illegal firework displays occurring in the village.

While small “sparkling devices” are allowed under New York State Law, all other fireworks, including those that shoot into the air and explode are illegal in New York State.

“Using and possessing these fireworks without the proper training, certification and permits is dangerous to the operator, bystanders and neighbors. Additionally the loud noise, smoke and litter that is produced present a serious quality of life issue to neighborhoods,” they said in the release.

They added that loud explosions can also be specifically harmful to household pets and to veterans who have served our country and may suffer from PTSD.

As a result of these concerns the Village of Liberty Police noted that they’ll be stepping up enforcement of illegal firework displays. They encouraged all residents to enjoy the sanctioned firework displays put on by the Town of Liberty and other municipalities around the county surrounding the July 4th weekend.

We agree with Liberty PD, and hope everyone is both careful and follows the law this weekend.

With that in mind, enjoy some time off, have fun and most importantly, happy birthday America!