A letter from former CCFR Chief Russ Mason to the community regarding the extreme fire danger surrounding 4th of July Celebrations.
To The Residents of Central County Fire & Rescue,
The fourth of July is meant to be a time of celebration for all of our residents. As the firefighters who are here to help keep you safe we hope to help you keep it that way.
Fireworks are the main culprits in making July 4 the highest day for reported fires in the United States. With this year’s extreme temperatures and dry weather conditions these fireworks are more dangerous than ever before; one firecracker has the ability to set an entire lawn, or worse, ablaze this year. Fireworks can also instantly cause serious, life-long injury and even death.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) consumer fireworks took the lives of eight Americans and caused $36 million in property damage in 2010. It is also important to remember that it is illegal to use fireworks in St. Peters, O’Fallon, Wentzville and Lake St. Louis.
I have responded to countless incidents where sparklers, firecrackers and small fireworks have seriously injured children, teens and adults, and caused tremendous property damage. It is my hope that we can prevent families from the pain, suffering and loss that can so easily happen from consumer fireworks. This Independence Day please leave the fireworks shows to the professionals, and have a safe holiday.
Sincerely,
Russell K. Mason
Chief Central County Fire & Rescue