Drought Conditions Increase Dangers for 4th of July Celebrations

Before residents decide to start their Fourth of July celebrations off with a bang, local safety officials are asking everyone to take precautions due to current drought conditions.

“With these drought conditions, just be very cautious with any open flames, any open grills, any backyard bar-b-que pits, any open flames at all,” said Deputy Chief Rick Sander. “Limit their use and have some type of extinguishing agent close by.”

Officials are also telling residents to never leave a grill unattended and to let coals completely cool before disposing. 

And when it comes to fireworks, Sander reminded residents to let the professionals handle them, as they are, of course, illegal in Illinois and dangerous. Even the smallest of fireworks such as sparklers can be a hazard.

“They burn very, very hot, up to 1800 degrees, so I would encourage parents not to let kids play with sparklers, they are very dangerous,” he said. 

Despite dry conditions, “oohs and aahs” will still be heard amongst the crackling of fireworks during , which take place on July 3 at 9:30 p.m. But the Naperville Fire Department will be on alert by having spotters, a fire crew and an engine on standby.

“We will monitor the weather and watch for the wind directions,” Sander said. “What we may do, depending on the area and how dry it is, we may wet the area down also.”

Every Fourth of July, thousands of people are injured while using fireworks and the risk of injury is highest for children ages 5 to 14, according to the Naperville Fire Department.

To avoid risks, fireworks should be viewed from at least 500 feet away. If recently exploded or unexploded fireworks are found, do not touch them.