Minnesota State Fire Marshal

The best fireworks show is one that ends with everyone safely back inside when the night is over.

Unless you have a permit, anything that flies or explodes is illegal.

This Fourth of July, remember a few simple tips:
• Never relight a "dud" firework.
• Soak used fireworks in water before safely disposing.
• Make sure you’re watching kids and pets at all times.

Let's make this Independence Day memorable for the right reasons.

For most people, the Fourth of July ends with memories, laughter and some photos on their phones.

For others, it ends in an ambulance or emergency room.

Learn from a burn surgeon about staying safe around fireworks in our latest Safety Matters blog: https://dps.mn.gov/news/sfm/burn-surgeons-fireworks-warning-fourth-july

When you call 911, you expect help to be there when you need it most.

Across Minnesota, fire departments are working to serve their communities despite staffing shortages, increasing equipment costs and other challenges.

That's why every single fire chief around the state is being asked to take part in the statewide fire service assessment. Their feedback will help identify the needs, opportunities and priorities that will shape the Minnesota fire service for years to come.

A stronger fire service means a safer Minnesota for everyone.

If you're a fire chief, check your email for the survey and make your voice heard! Visit our website for more: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/sfm/fire-depts/statewide-fire-service-assessment

Would you let your child hold their hand over the stove?

A Fourth of July sparkler isn’t much different.

These legal fireworks burn at nearly 2,000 degrees — hot enough to melt some metals.

While the spark may only last a few seconds, a serious burn or fire can change your life forever.

Remember these safety tips this year:
• Keep a bucket of water nearby.
• Never light fireworks close to buildings or trees.
• Always keep an eye on young children and pets.
• Don’t use fireworks if you’re using alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications.

Celebrate with memories, not emergency rooms.

Nearly three dozen Minnesotans have already died in fires this year, and it’s only May.

They were mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, friends and so much more.

Take steps today to protect yourself and your loved ones:
• Test and check the batteries in your smoke alarms.
• Create and practice a fire escape plan for your household.
• Keep the exits in your home clear.
• Never leave cooking, candles, smoking materials or other sources of fire unattended.

These small steps can save lives. Don’t wait until a tragedy strikes close to home to take action.

Campfires create memories — but one spark can change everything.

As you head outside this Memorial Day weekend, wildfires have already spread in parts of the state.

Dry conditions and wind can cause a fire to spread faster than you think.

Remember these safety tips before you sit down for s’mores:
• Check for burning restrictions and red flag warnings
• Keep water and a shovel nearby
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Drown the fire with water and make sure all embers are extinguished before leaving.
• Properly dispose of smoking materials