July 3, 2025 | From New Orleans Fire Department
The NOFD Wishes Everyone a Safe and Happy 4th of July
July 4th
The New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) would like to wish everyone a Safe and Happy 4th of July! The NOFD would also like to remind all for Independence Day that CONSUMER FIREWORKS ARE ILLEGAL IN ORLEANS PARISH. Make sure to tell friends and loved ones to refrain from using consumer fireworks, especially around children. Each July 4th, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. It’s important to understand the associated risks of fireworks – devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death. Approximately 10,000 Americans are injured each year due to fireworks and related fires, with over half of these incidents occurring during the first week of July. Additionally, many people think sparklers are harmless, but they burn very quickly at up to 1200* Fahrenheit and can cause severe burn injuries. Under no circumstance should fireworks be pointed at or thrown at people, animals, vehicles, structures, or flammable materials. Experts strongly advise leaving fireworks to professionals and using alternative, safer options like glow sticks.
NOFD Superintendent Roman Nelson states that, “Knowing the harm inflicted by fireworks each year, particularly on young people, NOFD is encouraging families to leave all fireworks to the professionals. Individuals and families should attend the public fireworks displays this 4th of July holiday. It is by far the safest, but also the legal way to enjoy fireworks.”
July 4th Weekend Forecast
Our forecast for the long holiday weekend will be moderate with temperatures being in the low 90s. Please take all necessary precautions to avoid the heat and stay safe:
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen.
- Drink water. Stay hydrated.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol if you plan to be in the heat.
- Avoid mid-day heat whenever possible.
- If outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible.
- Take advantage of indoor entertainment during mid-day hours.
- Take your pets with you. Do not leave them in parked cars.
- Never leave children alone in a car.
- In the event of a heat-related emergency, seek medical care immediately. Heat stroke is life threatening.
Grilling/Barbecue Safety
Many families enjoy lighting up their grills for the 4th of July. The NOFD wants everyone to remember to be safe when cooking outdoors. July is the peak month for grill fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), approximately 9,500 people are burned from grill fires or hot grills each year. The NFPA also states gas grills were involved in an average of 9,287 home fires per year, including 4,682 structure fires and 4,605 outdoor fires annually. Additionally, data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in 2020-2024 shows an average of 21,682 patients per year who went to emergency rooms because of injuries involving grills. The NOFD urges everyone to please barbecue and grill safely. Below are tips to help stay safe when cooking outdoors this Independence Day:
- All outdoor cooking must be done at least ten feet away from the home or any other combustibles or flammables.
- Before using a grill, check the connection between the propane tank and the fuel line. Make sure the venturi tubes - where the air and gas mix - are not blocked.
- Only use your grill outside. Keep it away from siding and deck rails.
- Keep your grill clean by removing fat or grease build-up from the grill.
- Never leave your grill unattended.
- Do not overfill the propane tank.
- Do not wear loose clothing while cooking at a barbecue.
- Be careful when using lighter fluid. Do not add fluid to an already lit fire because the flames can flash back up into the container and explode.
- Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately. Supervise children and pets around outdoor grills.
- Dispose of hot coals properly. Douse them with plenty of water and stir them to ensure that the fire is out. Never place them in plastic, paper or wooden containers.
- Never grill/barbecue in enclosed areas. Carbon monoxide could be produced.
- Make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop and Roll in case a piece of clothing does catch fire. Call 911 or your local emergency number if a burn warrants serious medical attention.
- Place the coals from your grill in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled.
Essence Festival
During the 4th of July weekend, the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) welcomes many visitors to our city for this year’s Essence Fest. The NOFD is determined in our efforts to make sure everyone’s experience is as safe as it is enjoyable. We will be partnering with the New Orleans Emergency Medical Services (NOEMS) throughout the downtown area. Our personnel will be responding in sprint cars.
As always, the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) is wishing you a safe and relaxing holiday weekend. Stay cool and stay safe.
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