ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, Tenn. -- The Fourth of July often brings familiar sights and sounds: backyard cookouts, families gathered under the evening sky and fireworks lighting up the night in celebration of America’s independence.
But in a matter of seconds, a celebration can become an emergency.
That’s why Arnold Air Force Base Fire and Emergency Services is reminding military members, civilian employees, contractors and their families to make safety part of their holiday plans before ever lighting the first fuse.
“As firefighters, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a celebration can turn into an emergency. Most of those emergencies are preventable,” said Arnold FES Fire Prevention Officer Guy Chastain. “A little planning and a little patience go a long way toward making sure everyone has a safe holiday.”
While fireworks remain a staple of Independence Day celebrations, they also cause thousands of injuries and fires across the nation each year. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 15,000 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in 2024, with burns accounting for more than one-third of reported injuries.
While consumer fireworks remain popular, fire officials say the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professionally conducted fireworks display, where trained pyrotechnicians manage controlled environments with established safety measures, allowing spectators to enjoy the celebration while minimizing the risk of injury or property damage.
Chastain advised that “prior to Independence Day celebrations, residents should verify that there are no local burn bans or fireworks ordinances in effect for their municipality or unincorporated county. For clarification on regional restrictions, individuals should consult their TN Wildland Fire office or contact local public safety officials directly.”
Those planning to celebrate with consumer fireworks, Arnold FES encourages following several simple precautions that can help prevent injuries and fires:
- Never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks.
- Fireworks warnings and instructions are read and followed.
- Other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. Never throw or point fireworks at people, homes or animals.
- Those lighting the fireworks never place any part of their bodies directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. People should back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Eye protection should be worn.
- Users should never attempt to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
Fire officials also remind families that sparklers are often mistaken as a safer alternative.
Despite their small size, sparklers burn at temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit and can cause severe burns, especially to children.
"Sparklers may look like magic to a child's eyes, but they burn as hot as a welding torch,” emphasized Chastain. “The safest way to let kids enjoy the Fourth of July is with distance, active supervision, and fun alternatives like glow sticks, noise makers, and patriotic-colored silly string."
Beyond fireworks, Independence Day celebrations often include grills, fire pits and outdoor gatherings. Fire officials recommend keeping grills away from structures, checking propane equipment before use and never leaving open flames unattended.
A little planning before the festivities begin can help ensure everyone enjoys the holiday safely.
“Every person assigned to Arnold plays an important role in supporting the mission,” said Chastain. “Our goal is for everyone to enjoy the holiday, spend quality time with their loved ones and return to work safe, healthy and ready to continue supporting the Arnold Engineering Development Complex mission.”
For additional information, contact the Arnold FES Fire Prevention Office at 931-454-5569 or 931-454-5306.