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STATE OF WEST VIRGINIA OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL DARRELL V. MCGRAW, JR. CONSUMER PROTECTION DIVISION 1-800-368-8808 or 304-558-8986 |
Press Release |
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Jill L. Miles Phone: 304-558-8986 |
Release Date: July 1, 2002 |
McGraw's Office Joins National Fireworks Safety EffortJuly 1, 2002 ATTORNEY GENERAL DARRELL V. McGRAW, JR. JOINS NATIONAL FIREWORKS SAFETY EFFORT Attorney General Darrell V. McGraw, Jr., and the United States Consumer Products Safety Commission urge consumers to celebrate the Fourth of July safely by not purchasing illegal fireworks and by adhering to national safety standards when using legal fireworks. "We all want to spend our Fourth of July with family and friends, not in the emergency room," said Attorney General McGraw. "The explosive force of illegal fireworks and the hazards of legal fireworks has resulted in severe burns, blinding, amputation and even death. We must work together to reduce the number of these preventable accidents." Attorney General McGraw commended the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s effort to investigate and prosecute those who attempt to manufacture or sell illegal fireworks. The most dangerous kinds of fireworks, such as M-80s, quarter-sticks and half-sticks, are banned under federal law. It is also illegal to sell professional display fireworks to consumers. West Virginia consumers may purchase "novelty" fireworks, which do not leave the ground. However, they should still be considered dangerous and handled with caution.
Read and follow all warnings and instructions. A responsible adult should closely supervise all fireworks activities. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings and flammable material. Light one item at a time and then move back quickly. Never try to re-light fireworks that have not fully functioned. Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them in metal or glass containers. Keep a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of a malfunction or fire. | |
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