By Andy Dahn

BLOOMINGTON – Sparklers are a popular type of firework on the Fourth of July and can be easily purchased at most convenience stores.

Public Information Officer for the Normal Fire Department Matt Swaney said the dangers of sparklers are often overlooked.

“They burn at extremely high temperatures,” Swaney said. “And when they’re given to small children, they run the risk of setting their clothes or hair on fire because their arms are shorter. Bringing that amount of heat close to their body just adds to the danger.”

Swaney said all fireworks should be kept out of the hands of small children.

“We recommend that the adults are the ones doing all the lighting and extinguishing,” said Swaney. “There has to be a safe distance from any spectators that may be watching. We want to make sure that there’s a garden hose on standby to wash down what’s leftover so that it’s nice and cool and wet and it doesn’t rekindle when you put it in your garbage can.”

Swaney added that fireworks should be kept away from structures and vehicles, and that residents must seek immediate medical attention if they become burned or injured in any way.

Andy Dahn can be reached at [email protected].