Celebrate safely this Independence Day
(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Fourth of July is widely celebrated, and many local agencies are reminding the community that fireworks are not only illegal in Colorado Springs, but can also severely impact our veterans and pets.
Despite how exciting they might be, it is important to take care of your furry friends. The Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region says across the country, more pets are lost on the 4th of July than any other day out of the year.
Data form the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also shows that last year, eight people across the country died from firework-related injuries. Overall, nearly 10,000 people were hurt, and more than half were children.
"So, let's make sure that we're celebrating responsibly," said Caitlin Ford with Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD).
In Colorado Springs, if a firework leaves the ground or explodes, it is not legal.
"Make sure you go to one of the numerous professional shows that we do have here in town. They're going to be great. They're going to be spectacular to go see those, leave those fireworks to the professionals, so that you can make sure to stay safe. We don't want to be responding to any burn calls, lost fingers, loss of hands," added Ford.
However, depending on where you live or plan to celebrate, in Southern Colorado certain types of fireworks might be allowed, like sparklers, snakes, fountains, tanks, smoke bombs, spinning wheels and ground spinners.
The 4th of July is also a busy time for the Humane society of the Pikes Peak Region (HSPPR). The shelter said keeping animals safe means knowing your pet and their reactions to loud noises like fireworks.
"Dogs, you know, have much better hearing than us humans. So, when we hear the loud bangs, it's even scarier for our furry friends. And that's why it can be a lot more startling. And, you know, they don't know exactly what's going on. So, it can be a scary experience for them," said Cody Costra with HSPPR.
HSPPR said if you're having people over, always watch the door and gates, and suggest keeping them in a quiet room with white noise or calm music. Also make sure to have your pet's tag on them.
"If you have a dog that either needs some medication or something that can help them calm down, that can be an option as well," added Costra.
It's also important to remember that pets are not the only ones sensitive to concussive sound. A study published by Penn Medicine News found that veterans struggle with firework celebrations from the inconsistent bright flashes and loud noises.
"You never know if a person might react badly to fireworks, or a dog. So, in that situation, you know, hopefully you know your neighbors pretty well and can check with them that, if it's okay to light off fireworks," said Costra.
CSPD reminds the community not to call 911 to report any illegal fireworks, to ensure that the line is available for emergencies. Instead, they ask that you call their non-emergency line at 719-444-7000.
