As Independence Day approaches, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is reminding residents to prioritize safety by leaving fireworks displays to the professionals and attending organized community events.
This week, Giannoulias joined fire safety officials and medical experts to highlight the significant risks associated with consumer fireworks, which are responsible for severe burns, eye injuries, and other serious accidents each year.
Officials referenced a tragic incident on June 11th, when fireworks exploded inside an SUV on Chicago’s Eisenhower Expressway, resulting in the driver’s death and causing the highway to be closed for over eight hours.
Illinois Secretary of State Police Bomb Squad Commander, Lieutenant Jonah Kinsolving warned that fireworks can malfunction, detonate without warning, or ignite after a delay, posing dangers to both users and bystanders.
Medical professionals emphasized that children are particularly vulnerable to fireworks-related injuries, noting that even sparklers can burn at temperatures over 2,000 degrees.
State leaders urge Illinois families to celebrate safely by attending professional fireworks shows and following local safety guidelines throughout the holiday weekend.