Francis Toussaint, Commander of the Aruba Fire Department, is urging parents to be extremely cautious and responsible when their children are handling firecrackers, especially during the holiday season.
In an interview with Matutino DIARIO, Commander Toussaint emphasized that adult supervision is essential whenever children are using fireworks. He advised parents to ensure that firecrackers are appropriate for the child’s age and not to allow children to imitate others who may be using more powerful fireworks.
“Parents must be attentive and present when their children are setting off firecrackers,” Toussaint warned. “Always have an adult nearby. Buy fireworks suitable for your child’s age. Just because a neighbor is using loud or powerful fireworks doesn’t mean your child should do the same. Remember, you have young children. It’s vacation time, but accidents can happen quickly if children start experimenting on their own.”
He also cautioned parents not to bring fireworks into the workplace, noting that children may attempt to use them unsupervised, increasing the risk of serious incidents.
Commander Toussaint added that firework-related accidents have decreased over the years, largely due to the Fire Department’s ongoing awareness programs in schools, which help children understand the dangers involved.
He shared a memorable experience from a school visit, where a teacher pointed out a student who had arrived late. After the presentation, Toussaint learned that the child had just returned from the doctor and had asked when his injured fingers would grow back—an injury caused by a firecracker accident.
“That moment truly touched us,” Toussaint said. “It was heartbreaking and a powerful reminder of why prevention and awareness are so important.
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