Residents warned about dangers of fireworks

Aaron Clemens

Friday, June 30, 2000 | 10:33 a.m.

With wildfires already a problem in Nevada, Clark County firefighters are taking extra precautions against illegal fireworks over the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Fire department spokesman Bob Leinbach said Southern Nevada's hot and dry conditions were visibly illustrated this week when firefighters themselves set off two fires while giving demonstrations of illegal fireworks.

"We want people to have fun, but that won't happen if someone gets hurt or if there is a fire," Leinbach said.

He advised the use of the legally approved fireworks. Although these fireworks have been tested, people should use them away from flammable material and on a flat surface such as a driveway, keep water handy and soak used fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them away. Parents should supervise their children because even sparklers can cause burns or fires, he said.

The first fireworks-related injury of the year happened Thursday. A 12-year-old boy in West Las Vegas received second-degree burns on his right hand after a 2-liter bottle he filled with legal fireworks exploded.

Leinbach recommends cold water for burns and a sterile dressing followed by a trip to the hospital.

Illegal fireworks such as bottle rockets and M-80s are most likely to start fires, Leinbach said. All exploding, bouncing or rocket fireworks are illegal in Clark County.

After midnight on the Fourth of July, all fireworks will be illegal in Clark County.

Starting a fire could result in criminal prosecution and civil liability for damages and for fighting the fire, said Steve Frady, spokesman for the Nevada Division of Forestry.

There will be firework displays on July 1 and July 3 after Las Vegas Stars games at Cashman Field. On the evening of the fourth about 9 p.m. there will be a show at the Santa Fe hotel-casino and at the Hills Park at Summerlin. The Stratosphere hotel-casino will put on a show at 11 p.m.