Oklahoma City firefighters: At least 43 fires caused by fireworks

At least 43 fires in Oklahoma City were caused by fireworks during the Fourth of July weekend, according to the Oklahoma City Fire Department.

The department responded to 366 calls on July 4, about 150 more than a typical day, Capt. Scott Douglas said.

"It's tough to say what the busiest day of the year is, but (July Fourth) is definitely one that we know we're going to be busy," Douglas said.

A vehicle fire in the 600 block of SE 29 was started in a nearby Dumpster by discarded fireworks, according to a fire department news release.

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Another fireworks-related fire was reported in the 5100 block of Keith Drive, where two homes caught fire.

Douglas said throwing away used fireworks is a common mistake.

"It may be two or three in the morning, but those those fireworks are still hot. They're still kindling and they're still burning, even though people can't see them," he said. "Those flames reach up to your home and can easily catch your house on fire."

He said the department dealt with many grass fires during the holiday due to fireworks and dry vegetation.

Douglas reminded residents that buying and using fireworks is illegal in Oklahoma City limits.

"That's the first mistake," he said.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Firefighters deal with firework accidents July Fourth