More fires occur in the United States on July 4^th than on any other day of the year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  Nearly half of those fires are caused by fireworks.

That is why Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District (BCFPD) officials want residents to enjoy a safe Independence Day holiday by leaving fireworks displays to trained professionals.

Thousands of people – most often children and teenagers – are also injured or burned each year while using illegal fireworks to celebrate the holiday.

Even sparklers, long considered a “safe” alternative, may be extremely dangerous.  The tip of a lit sparkler burns at temperatures ranging from 1,800 degrees to 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit – hot enough to cause 3^rd degree burns and ignite clothing.

By comparison, glass melts at 900 degrees and wood burns at 575 degrees.

For more information on fireworks safety, contact the BCFPD at 847-304-3600.

About BCFPD

The Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District receives emergency fire and medical service from the Barrington Fire Department, which is responsible for protecting the lives and property of District residents through an intergovernmental agreement between the District and Village of Barrington.  The District serves portions of Barrington Hills, South Barrington, Lake Barrington and Inverness; and portions of unincorporated Cook, Lake and McHenry Counties.

The BCFPD Board of Trustees meets the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m., at the Barrington Public Safety Building, 400 N. Northwest Highway, Barrington, IL. 

For more information on BCFPD activities and events, visit www.bcfpd.org.