<img src=" http://www.joplinglobeonline.com/images/zope/new.gif" border=0>Official: Leave fireworks to professionals

July 03, 2009 12:43 pm

— ST. LOUIS (AP) — Missouri Fire Marshal Randy Cole says more than 400 people were treated in Missouri emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries.
Cole says emergency responders see permanent scarring and disfigurement when people set off fireworks improperly.
The fire marshal says the safest way to enjoy fireworks this July 4th weekend is at a public show put on by professionals. Cole says even fireworks that seem harmless, like sparklers, can lead to serious burns, especially among children.