DC urges fireworks safety over Fourth of July weekend as city continues work to slow spread of coronavirus

WASHINGTON - D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser urged District residents to safely celebrate over the Fourth of July holiday weekend -- not only to prevent further spread of the coronavirus -- but to avoid injuries associated with fireworks.

DC Mayor discusses Fourth of July Safety

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser spoke with FOX 5 about staying safe this Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather

Last year, nine serious incidents involving fireworks were reported in D.C., including several that left children with burns and one case that resulted in the amputation of a person’s fingers.

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser discusses fireworks and July 4

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser talks about July 4.

Bowser said that already this year, four serious incidents related to the use of illegal fireworks have been reported including an 11-year-old child who suffered second degree burns.

The Mayor said safety teams, called Go Teams, will work in different parts of the city over the holiday weekend to try and help educate about fireworks safety.

CORONAVIRUS IN DC, MARYLAND AND VIRGINIA

In addition to fireworks safety, Mayor Bowser urged residents to celebrate at or close to home in an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The mayor encouraged social distancing at any gathering and asked residents to cancel gatherings if anyone in the household does not feel well.

CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES: Everything You Need to Know

LEGAL FIREWORKS INCLUDE:

-Sparklers less than 20 inches in length

-Torches

-Bon Fire

-Fountains

-Cones

-Dip Sticks

-Paper Novelty Items

-Colored Lights

-Paper Caps

ILLEGAL FIREWORKS INCLUDE: