Fireworks prohibited on base Published June 29, 2011 By Brandice J. O'Brien Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Fireworks, while literally a blast, are not permitted on base. "Some people think this only pertains to industrial areas and not base housing," said Earnest Baxter, Tinker fire inspector. "It's not; fireworks are prohibited throughout the installation." Fireworks are the cause of thousands of fires and injuries. "While they are an enjoyable tradition, and readily available, it's much cheaper, safer, and enjoyable in most cases to leave the displays to the professionals," Mr. Baxter said. "We are in a serious drought condition throughout Oklahoma which compounds the problems of firework displays. Dry conditions combined with sparks equal potential for huge wild-land fires," said Terry Ford, Tinker Fire and Emergency Services chief. In 2009 it was reported by the National Fire Protection Association that fireworks were responsible for 18,000 fires and caused $38 million in property damage. The same findings reported roughly 8,800 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries. The most common injuries were hand or finger burns. Sparklers caused more injuries than any other kind of firework. The tip of a sparkler reaches more than 1,200 degrees. To put it in perspective, Mr. Baxter said cakes bake at 350 degrees, wood burns at 575 degrees and glass melts at 900 degrees. While males are responsible for 73 percent of firework-related injuries in 2009, Mr. Baxter said each year, thousands of people, mostly children and teenagers between the ages of 10 and 14 are injured while using consumer fireworks. "Children should never pick up a used firework; it may still be active," Mr. Baxter said. Fireworks are also illegal within the city limits of Del City, Edmond, Midwest City, Moore, Norman and Oklahoma City. They are permitted in Choctaw between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m. July 1-3; and 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. July 4. In Mustang, they are permitted from 3 to 10 p.m. June 27 to July 3; and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4. Fireworks prohibited anywhere in Oklahoma include bottle rockets, stick rockets, cherry bombs and M-80s. For more clarification or information on public firework displays, call your town or city hall.