WEST HARTFORD, Connecticut – The Fourth of July is a time for fireworks and fun, but with the summer excitement comes important tips on how to celebrate safely.

Now fire departments across the state could receive new federal funding to help protect the public.

“There will be unnecessary tragedies this weekend,” said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT). “Last year there were 9,700 injuries. The number is rising.”

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“Three-quarters of all fireworks injuries nationwide occur in the two weeks surrounding the Fourth of July,” said Trooper Kyle Faucher of the Connecticut State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit. “Injuries can include lost fingers, severe extremity injuries, and in some cases, even death.”

Connecticut state law prohibits the use of fireworks, with the exception of sparklers and fountains, but even these come with risks.

Pyro experts advise to step back immediately after the fireworks have been lit, never try to light them while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and dispose of them in a bucket of water.

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“Remember to be safe and law-abiding this holiday and leave the fireworks to the professionals,” Faucher added.

Despite all the warnings, fire department representatives are aware that numerous emergency calls are to be expected on July 4th.

“In recent years, more than 100 fires in Connecticut have been attributed to the use or improper disposal of fireworks,” Faucher said. “There have also been dozens of injuries.”

To ensure people's safety, fire departments need resources.

On Wednesday, Blumenthal announced the passage of the federal Fire Grants and Safety Act, which provides $1.6 billion in grants for local fire departments.

“Here in Hartford, there was a $400,000 grant last year; that's real money,” he said. “They'll apply for new breathing apparatus; they'll apply for new fire trucks.”

Firefighters say this money is essential to their own safety and that of the public, not just on July 4, but all year long.

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“This is critical, this is part of our job,” said West Hartford Fire Chief Greg Priest. “Every time we enter a fire station, we need our equipment to respond effectively to calls.”

The Fire Grants and Safety Act is valid until 2028 – according to Blumenthal, it secures possible federal funding for Connecticut fire departments for at least another four years.

Next year, the total will be $1.6 billion, but Blumenthal said that amount could rise each year as the cost of training and equipment increases.

Departments like West Hartford's may soon begin applying for some of that money.

Emma Wulfhorst is a political reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Facebook, X And Instagram.

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