New Laws Put Fireworks Safety in the Spotlight

FREMONT, Mich., June 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, Michigan legislators made it legal to own and use a new class of fireworks in the state of Michigan including items that shoot into the air, such as Roman candles and bottle rockets.  Since this decision there has been a great deal of debate as local municipalities grapple with the issues related to these previously illegal items.  And while several cities across the state have already passed local ordinances restricting the use of fireworks, there are 30 days during the year that state law dictates that it is legal for consumers to detonate these high-powered pyrotechnic devices.  With that in mind, Fremont Insurance, a Michigan-exclusive property and casualty insurance carrier with headquarters in Fremont, Michigan, wants to help make sure that consumers use these devices in a safe way to avoid injury and property damage.  

"Along with this new class of fireworks comes a whole new set of dangers that consumers need to be aware of and take precautions to avoid," said Kurt Dettmer, vice president and chief marketing officer for Fremont Insurance.  "Personal injuries, such as damage to the eyes or burns to the hands are the most common issue associated with fireworks and now that devices that leave the ground are legal, consumers need to be extra cautious to avoid these kind of injuries.  Airborne devices also represent a serious fire hazard that can result in significant property damage."

The National Council on Fireworks Safety (www.fireworkssafety.org) offers these safety tips to help avoid serious injuries and costly property damage:

• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Obey local laws, some of which may be new or recently updated.
• Always have water handy (A hose or bucket) before lighting any fireworks. 
• Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
• Know your fireworks. Read the caution label before igniting so you know what to expect.
• Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.
• Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks of any kind, even sparklers.  Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.
• Never use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives: They can kill you! Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.
• Use common sense. If it seems dangerous, you probably shouldn't do it.

About Fremont Insurance

Fremont Insurance is a subsidiary of the Auto Club Group, servicing the Independent Agents of Michigan. The company has been a Pure Michigan company since 1876. Dynamic Products, Exceptional Service, and Competitive Pricing have made Fremont Insurance one of the fastest growing and most respected companies operating in Michigan.  For more information about Fremont Insurance you can visit the company online at www.fmic.com, find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FremontInsuranceCo, or follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FremontIns.

SOURCE Fremont Insurance