TAMPA, Fla.– Despite ongoing public education efforts, Tampa Fire Rescue (TFR) responded to multiple fireworks-related incidents over the Fourth of July holiday. These calls, involving injuries, fires, and property damage, serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by amateur fireworks use.
“Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our residents while protecting our community,” said Fire Chief Barbara Tripp of Tampa Fire Rescue. “Unfortunately, this Fourth of July we responded to a number of preventable incidents resulting from the improper use of fireworks.”
Read: 2 Suspects Arrested In Shooting Outside Of An Adult Club In Tampa Overnight
Two incidents underscore the importance of fireworks safety:
- Belmont Heights Crowd Injury: On July 4th at 8:02 pm, a firework was discharged into a crowd in the Belmont Heights neighborhood. This resulted in burns to the lower extremities of an adult female and a juvenile male. Both were transported to Tampa General Hospital.
- South Tampa House Fire: Early Friday morning (July 5th at 12:55 am), TFR responded to a trash fire on S. O’Brien St. in South Tampa. Upon arrival, firefighters found a three-story residence with a vehicle engulfed in flames that were spreading to the house. The fire was extinguished within 20 minutes. Thankfully, a search confirmed the residence was unoccupied, and no injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters. Investigation revealed improperly discarded fireworks in a trash bin as the cause of the fire.
These incidents highlight the risks associated with fireworks in the hands of untrained individuals. TFR urges the public to leave fireworks displays to trained professionals and enjoy the festivities safely.
Help support the Tampa Free Press by making any small donation by clicking here.
Android Users, Click To Download The Tampa Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Sign up for our free newsletter.