Cape Coral Fire Department offers fireworks safety tips for New Year’s Eve

As the New Year’s Eve festivities approach, the Cape Coral Fire Department is reminding residents to prioritize safety when using fireworks.

They have released a list of precautions to help ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration:

• Use consumer fireworks responsibly.
• Keep fireworks away from children, and never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
• Only use fireworks outdoors.
• Keep fireworks away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never assume a firework is a “dud.” Wait 20 minutes, then collect the firework and soak it in a bucket of water.
• Never relight a firework that did not work.
• Never hold fireworks in your hands when lighting.
• Do not shoot fireworks from glass bottles or metal containers.
• Read the instructions before lighting any fireworks.
• Fireworks are an explosive and will cause damage to your body.
• Light one firework at a time.
• Never keep fireworks in your pocket.
• Have a bucket of water and a working water line nearby.
• Never try to create homemade fireworks.
• Be cautious.
• Be prepared.
• Be safe.

For a safer alternative, residents are encouraged to attend the city’s New Year’s Eve Celebration and Ball Drop on Southeast 47th Terrace, which offers a family-friendly way to ring in the new year.

The Cape Coral Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and happy start to 2025.