- April 18, 2024
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When two boys, ages 7 and 8, picked up unexploded fireworks at Dr. Carver Park in Bunnell June 9 and lit them, the fireworks exploded and caused "life-altering injuries" to both boys, according to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office.
One boy had injuries to his face, and the other had injuries to his hand, according to a Sheriff's Office spokeswoman.
The Sheriff's Office issued a news release reminding residents that fireworks are illegal and urging people to report any unexploded fireworks to law enforcement.
"We don’t want to see any more fires or more injuries as a result of illegal and improper use of fireworks," Sheriff Rick Staly said in the news release.
Over the previous week, according to the news release, illegal fireworks caused brush and marsh fires in Flagler County.
The Flagler County Sheriff's Office received 48 calls about fireworks on July 4, according to information provided by a Sheriff's Office spokeswoman.
In Ormond Beach, the Ormond Beach Police Department got 19 calls about illegal firework displays on July 4, OPBD spokesman Keith Walker said.
Illegal fireworks displays can also cause less physical problems. After Ormond Beach Observer Community Editor Jacque Estes wrote a column about how fireworks can scare pets and be unsettling cor combat veterans who have PTSD, community members commented on the story's Facebook post.
"I dread it. It won't be just one night, it will be for a week and my poor dog will suffer because of idiots," wrote Mary Lynn Crosby.
Wrote resident Gail Smith: "We can be cautious with them, not allow them off leash for fear of running off scared, keeping them securely indoors comforting them. Our pet's Vet just posted an article about to help them and to consider having mild anxiety medications on hand for those animals who suffer from extreme anxiety during thunderstorms and fireworks." She continued: "So many of our heroes, veterans who were willing to sacrifice their very lives for us, suffering from PTSD are at risk during this time because of fireworks. Can't imagine the fear it invokes and reminders of warfare. Trading the temporary fun I may experience watching the sky light up from fireworks for their peace of mind is a small price. Done. No fireworks at our house."
