As families across Champaign County prepare for cookouts, fireworks, and holiday celebrations, the Urbana Police Division is reminding everyone that a little planning can go a long way toward keeping the Independence Day weekend safe.
Urbana Police Division Chief Josh Jacobs is encouraging residents to celebrate responsibly and says officers will have an increased presence throughout the city’s annual Third of July celebration to help keep everyone safe.
If you are celebrating outside the city where consumer fireworks are permitted, safety experts recommend following a few simple precautions. According to the American Red Cross and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, you should:
- Attend a professional fireworks display whenever possible.
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks, including sparklers, which can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees.
- Have a bucket of water or garden hose nearby before lighting fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and move away quickly after it’s lit.
- Never try to relight a firework that doesn’t go off. Wait at least 20 minutes, then soak it thoroughly in water before throwing it away.
- Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Keep pets indoors, where loud noises are less likely to frighten them.
Police also remind residents to be courteous neighbors by respecting private property and cleaning up after celebrations.
With thousands expected to attend local festivities over the holiday weekend, Chief Jacobs says the goal is simple: enjoy the celebration, look out for one another, and make sure everyone gets home safely.
