A local Fire Chief is issuing a warning to the public after one of their members was injured by fireworks last month.
On November 26, firefighters set up a firework display for the tree lighting ceremony in Portugal Cove – St. Philips.
The department was using fireworks purchased from a licensed store on the island. Co-fire chief of the volunteer fire department from the area, Fred Hollet, says the device exploded upon being ignited.
The @PCSPFire firefighter was wresting a helmet and glasses and still suffered a burn. @VOCMNEWS @GerriLynnMackey pic.twitter.com/czToYIuhcG
— Fred Hutton (@Fred_Hutton) December 18, 2019
Hollet says the malfunctioning device fired a projectile toward the firefighter who lit it, knocked back the visor on his helmet and struck his glasses. This resulted in the firefighter being cut on the forehead and having a reddened cheek.
The firefighter who sustained the injury was in full fire protective equipment, something Hollet says most people are not wearing while lighting fireworks.
Hollett is warning the public to ensure they follow the directions exactly as listed on the packaging, wear protective gear and do not light anything while under the influence.
Hollett shares some valuable advice: pic.twitter.com/JMgLF9oldk
— Gerri Lynn Mackey (@GerriLynnMackey) December 18, 2019
