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‘Hundreds of emergency calls:’ Hillsborough firefighters respond to scores of fireworks incidents

Officials stress importance of fireworks safety amid reports of damage, injuries

The Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to 'hundreds of calls' on the Fourth of July, many related to incidents involving fireworks. (Hillsborough County Fire Department)

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Hillsborough County Fire Rescue announced Friday morning that the county’s firefighters had responded to hundreds of emergency calls on the Fourth of July.

The fire department said on social media that the calls included several working structure fires and incidents relating to fireworks on Thursday night. Of the numerous calls, officials stated nine were significant and resulted in two victims who sustained traumatic injuries.

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Photo of one of the serious incidents fire rescue officials responded to in Hillsborough County on the Fourth of July. (Hillsborough Fire Department)

Two of the worst scenes concerning fireworks-related incidents were in Seffner and Riverview in the Tampa area, the post states. Officials said the firefighters were “met with heavy flames at both scenes,” but were able to safely extinguish them.

The fire department released this list with tips on how to celebrate Independence Day weekend while avoiding injuries and damage:

  • Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby, and completely submerge or soak used and dud fireworks.
  • Light fireworks outdoors on a flat surface away from buildings, dry grass, and flammable materials.
  • Never attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks.
  • Do not point fireworks at people or buildings.

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