The Knoxville Fire Department is reminding the community of Independence Day safety, especially when it comes to those who shoot off fireworks.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, the only safe way to view fireworks is to attend a professional show, and fireworks cause thousands of injuries in the United States every year. According to the same source, more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually nationwide and half of firework injuries seen at emergency rooms were extremities. As kid friendly as sparklers may seem, they can be just as dangerous, as they account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries and burn up to 1200 degrees. 

Due to a change in state legislation, fireworks are now legal to shoot off on July 3rd and July 4th. Knoxville Fire Chief Cal Wyman says those who are  going to shoot off fireworks should always keep safe distances, be aware of scattering embers that could start fires, be respectful of your neighbors, and to safely extinguish fireworks and sparklers in water. Wyman also says that fireworks should not be used when consuming alcohol.

“Use some common sense. Fireworks are going to go off and throw embers for several hundred yards, especially if it’s a breezy day the wind is going to carry them. Just be aware of your surroundings. Try not to use alcohol while you are shooting off fireworks because that will impair your judgment and you may not make the best decisions while you’re using alcohol and fireworks.”

The Knoxville city firework show will be held at approximately 9:30 pm tonight. Fireworks will be shot from the airport.