AFD Press Release “Fireworks Safety”…
Friday, December 30, 2011
As the New Year approaches, the Anchorage Fire Department and Anchorage Police Department remind everyone that fireworks 
can only be used in the Municipality of Anchorage (includes Chugiak, Eklutna, Eagle River, Girdwood, Indian, Portage) from Saturday, December 31st from 9:30 p.m. to Sunday, January 1st at 1:00a.m. Also as a reminder the sale of fireworks within the Municipality is still not permitted.
Failure to use fireworks properly can cause loss of vision, permanent scarring and dismemberment. Here are some safety tips to help prevent injury:
- Always read and follow label directions
- Always have an adult present
- Only buy from reliable fireworks vendors
- Use outside only
- Light one Firework at a time
- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
- Never attempt to re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
- Never shoot or aim fireworks at another person
- Never give fireworks to small children
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket
- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place
Fireworks can be used on private property only. They cannot be used in the following restricted areas:
- Property zoned B-2A Central Business District Core.
- Property zoned PLI (Public Lands and Institutions District).
- Within 500 feet of any commercial overnight visitor accommodation, health care or assisted living facility, library, school or place of religious worship.
- Within 500 feet of any automotive service station or other premises where flammable liquids or gasses are: stored in quantities in excess of 50 gallons of liquids or 100 pounds for gases; or offered for sale to the public.
- Within or from any structure or vehicle.
- Any location designated a noise sensitive zone under AMC 15.70.040.
- Any location determined in writing by the Municipality to pose a fire danger.
- Within any designated mobile home park.
- Within 200 feet of the residential structure of another.
Facts & figures:
- The risk of fireworks injury was highest for children ages 10-14, with more than 2 ½ times the risk for the general population.
- In 2009, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,800 people for fireworks related injuries; 53% of 2009 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 42% were to the head.
- Sparklers and novelties alone accounted for 32% of the emergency room fireworks injuries in 2009.
- In 2009, fireworks caused an estimated 18,000-reported fire, including 1,300 structure fires, 400 vehicle fires and 16,300 outside and other fires.
- Person using fireworks outside of the designated time frame are subject to a fine of up to $500 dollars.
It’s a familiar sound heard every Christmas as you walk through our area malls; the ringing of the 
Connect With Us