Oooo!! Ahhh!! Fireworks on Long Island
By Andrew Ehinger
Many people know water boils at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. But did you know that a simple sparkler–you know, the ones that little kids play around with–well, they burn at 1,800 degrees! I didn’t.
Just one of the little facts that I learned at the Nassau Arson and Bomb Squad today.
Detective Lt. Kevin Power the commander of the unit pulled out what some would believe could be a great fireworks celebration. Bottle rockets, M80’s, enormous mortar shells, fire crackers and sparklers. You name it, he had it. But bottom line, he says, they’re all illegal in New York.
Every year around The Fourth of July police seize lots of fireworks from folks who want to celebrate with a “Bang” at home. They get them mainly from states down south or Pennsylvania where they are sold legally. (For a state by state list where fireworks are legal and illegal click here.) Problem Lt. Power says is that “Bang” could send you to the hospital or even kill if not handled properly. Just ask any emergency room nurse or doctor. Its not unusual they’ll tell you to see fireworks related injuries that can range from minor burns to serious dismemberment.
Power says if you want to really celebrate the fourth, check out a professionally run show. Many communities on the island host fireworks shows big and small. But probably the biggest is the Jones Beach Fireworks Spectacular. If you haven’t seen it, go check it out. It truly is Spectacular!
