Although most towns, cities and others have called off Independence Day fireworks displays this year, Friends of Nanih Waiya Community Park is still hosting their annual pyrotechnic salute to America. Sponsored by the Friends of Nanih Waiya Community Park, the show blasts off at 9:00 p.m. Saturday and is visible from all areas of the Nanih Waiya Community Park located at 9185 Mississippi Hwy 490 East Louisville, Mississippi. All persons are encouraged to practice social distancing during the event. The event is a free event. For more information visit the Friends of Nanih Waiya Community Park on social media. Friends of Nanih Waiya Community Park is a nonprofit organization whose goal is to maintain the community park for all of the community to enjoy. The Nanih Waiya Community Park was completed without any government funding and is one of the only privately funded community parks in rural America. The Peggy Stokes Community Center in the park is used on a regular basis for community meetings, family gatherings and celebrations. The park also offers state-of-the-art playground for the youngest members of the community and a quarter-mile walking track. AVOID FIREWORK INJURY THIS INDEPENDENCE DAY The State Fire Marshal’s Office encourages firework safety this Independence Day. “There may be more personal use of fireworks at homes and in neighborhoods than usual, as many public fireworks displays are cancelled because of the coronavirus,” said State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney. “I hope that Mississippians will use caution if they handle fireworks and follow the safety tips laid out below.” On average, 180 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. The risk of fireworks injury is highest for young people ages 0-4, followed by children 10-14. Sparklers, often a favorite with children, can reach up to 1200 º Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns. For those choosing to use fireworks, the Mississippi State Fire Marshal suggests you follow these safety tips: • Observe local laws. o Those wishing to purchase and use fireworks should first check with their fire protection officials to make sure that local laws are being followed. • Some municipalities prohibit fireworks from being used within city limits. • Use common sense: always read and follow the directions on each firework. • Never point or throw fireworks at another person. • Buy from reliable fireworks sellers. Store them in a cool, dry place. • Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks. • Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and have a hose ready. • Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees. • Light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance. • Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks. • Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks. • Never give fireworks to small children. • Never carry fireworks in your pocket. • Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
