WEST HARTFORD, Conn. — The Fourth of July is a time for fireworks and fun, but with the summer excitement comes important reminders about how to celebrate safely.
Now, fire departments across the state could be getting new federal funding to help keep residents protected.
“There will be needless tragedies this weekend,” said U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, (D-CT). “There were 9,700 injuries last year. The rate is rising.”
“Three-quarters of all fireworks injuries nationwide occur in the two weeks surrounding the Fourth of July holiday,” explained Trooper Kyle Faucher, with the Connecticut State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit. “Injuries can include loss of digits, serious extremity injuries and, in some cases, can even be fatal.”
Connecticut state law prohibits the use of fireworks except sparklers and fountains, but even those come with risks.
Pyro experts say be sure to back away as soon as the firework is lit, never attempt to use them under the influence and dispose in a bucket of water.
“Remember this holiday to keep it safe, keep it legal and leave the fireworks to the professionals,” Faucher added.
Fire officials say despite warnings, they know they will get plenty of emergency calls this Fourth of July.
“In recent years, over 100 fires in Connecticut have been attributed to the use or improper disposal of fireworks,” said Faucher. “There have been also dozens of injuries.”
In order to keep people safe, fire departments need resources.
Wednesday, Blumenthal announced the passage of the federal Fire Grants and Safety Act, authorizing $1.6 billion in grants for local fire departments.
“Here in Hartford last year, there was a $400,000 grant; we're talking about real money,” he said. “They'll be applying for new kinds of breathing apparatus; they'll be applying for new fire trucks.”
Firefighters say this money will be essential to help keep them and the public safe, not only on July Fourth, but year-round.
“It's critical, it's part of our job, right,” said West Hartford Fire Chief Greg Priest. “Every time we come into a fire station, we need our equipment to be able to effectively respond to calls.”
The Fire Grants and Safety Act is authorized through 2028 — Blumenthal says that secures at least four more years of possible federal funding for Connecticut fire departments.
Next year’s total will be $1.6 billion, but Blumenthal says that could increase each year, as the costs for trainings and equipment rise.
Departments like West Hartford's will soon be able to start applying for a chunk of this money.
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Emma Wulfhorst is a political reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at ewulfhorst@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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