By Daniel Lapham/Staff writer

Common sense and respect for the law could go a long way in keeping people and property safe this Fourth of July weekend, said El Reno Fire Chief Kent Lagaly.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), along with other medical and consumer safety groups, are urging the public to leave fireworks to the professionals.

El Reno residents will have the chance to see two professional fireworks shows this weekend. Lucky Star Casino will provide fireworks Friday night, while the city of El Reno has moved its Lake El Reno show to Saturday night. This way, “People can enjoy both fireworks shows,” said Kathlene Douglas, administrative assistant to Lagaly.

With the Fourth falling on a Friday, “We were able to work with Lucky Star so people could have a more enjoyable weekend,” she said.

A good way to enjoy the holiday weekend is to not get hurt, said Lagaly. He urged parents to keep fireworks out of their children’s hands.

“The bottom line is you are putting an explosive device in your hand and then lighting it,” Lagaly said. “Take that and add carelessness or a little too much partying and you could get a dangerous recipe.”

According to the latest statistics in 2006, 11 people died and an estimated 9,200 were treated in emergency departments for fireworks-related injuries in the United States. An estimated 5 percent of fireworks-related injuries required hospitalization.

In addition to fireworks-related injuries, “There are more fires on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year,” Lagaly said.

Lagaly said his stand against consumer fireworks has come from firsthand experiences.

“I remember the last year we had legal fireworks out at the lake,” Lagaly said. “People were shooting Roman candles at our fire trucks. There were fires all over the place.”

Although explosive fireworks are often thought of as the most dangerous, according to the NFPA, sparklers, fountains and novelty fireworks cause a much higher percentage of injuries to children under age 10.

“Think about it,” Lagaly said. “A sparkler burns at over 1,000 degrees. You are putting a welding rod into your child’s hand.”

Lagaly said he understands there are people who will drive outside the city limits and set off fireworks. “Just know the risks and be responsible,” he said.

“If you start a fire, regardless if it is an accident or not, you can be charged with arson if there is property damage. Even if you are setting off fireworks legally, you can be forced to pay restitution,” Lagaly said.

FIREWORKS DISPLAYS

Fireworks over Concho
When: 10 p.m. on Friday
Where: Lucky Star Casino

Fireworks over Lake El Reno
When: 9:30 p.m. on Saturday
Where: Lake El Reno