Preparing for a Fire Safe 4th of July
The National Fire Protection Association tracks 4th of July fire activity across the country, and here's what they've found:
On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.
- In 2011, fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 reported fires, including 1,200 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 40 civilian injuries and $32 million in direct property damage.
- In 2012, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,700 people for fireworks related injuries; 55% of 2012 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 31% were to the head.
- The risk of fireworks injury was highest for young people ages 15-24, followed by children under 10.
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NPS Photo / J. Ferracane
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Fireworks are prohibited at all national parks in the San Francisco Bay Area, but the parks do offer some great places to watch the large displays provided by the various cities around the bay.
Traditionally, fire management staff increase patrols during the 4th of July celebration to help ensure visitor safety and fire protection.
TOP BANNER PHOTO: NPS engines doing practice drills in the Marin Headlands where a wildfire started by illegal fireworks was suppressed on July 4th last year. Photo by R. Jones, Engine 1130 crew member.
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FREE Brush Drop-Off / Green Waste Days in Nicasio
July 12-13, 2014
If you missed the FREE brush drop off days on June 21-22, don't worry you still have time!
This program supports homeowners' efforts to create defensible space, by offering easy disposal of yard materials such as branches grass, and light brush. Please do not bring building materials, non-vegetation debris, garbage or palm trees.
Saturday and Sunday, July 12-13, 2014
9:00 am to 4:00 pm
West Marin Compost
5575 Nicasio Valley Road
Sponsored by Marin County Board of Supervisors, Marin County Fire Department and West Marin Compost.
Call 415-473-6717 for more information.
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