Star Spangled Safety: Fire Safety Safety Tips to Enjoy a Spectacular Fourth of July

Fireworks are quite a sight to see during the Fourth of July holiday, and even more exciting to view at one of the largest fireworks shows in Pinellas County here in Largo. However, when fireworks are not set off by professionals, over 9,000 fireworks injuries are reported due to unsafe firework set-off, fireworks are the causes of nearly 19,000 fires annually. If you have children, the risk is even higher; children under 15 accounted for over a quarter of the estimated fireworks-related injuries. And children ages 0 to 4 had the highest rate of fireworks-related ER visits. The City of Largo and Largo Fire Rescue wants to encourage you to practice fire safety this holiday with fun and safe alternatives to celebrate.  

  • Laser Show: Avoiding fireworks doesn’t mean you have to skip out on dazzling lights. Instead, head to a laser show. Although a little electricity is expended during the show, it’s still an Earth-friendly option. The lights can be used time and time again whereas fireworks can only be used once. 
  • Biodegradable Confetti & Confetti Sticks: Head over to Largo's Flutter Fetti for patriotic options. Biodegradable confetti is a collection of decorative, celebratory bits that break down or degrade by natural processes without causing ecological harm.  
  • Glowsticks: Glow sticks are the easiest way to swap out the ol' explosives. Fill up a bucket with a bundle of glow sticks and make a cute sign to go along with it. 
  • Bubbles and Noisemakers: Always a hit for kids of all ages, these safe alternatives bring the fun while creating the illusion of fireworks. 

We wish you a very happy and safe Fourth of July holiday. For more ways to celebrate, visit PlayLargo.com/IlluminateLargo.