MAYNARDVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — A volunteer firefighter was taken to the hospital after fireworks caused a house fire and multiple propane tank explosions in Union County Wednesday.
Around 6 p.m. Wednesday, firefighters with the Paulette Volunteer Fire Department responded to reports of a house fire that was started by fireworks in the 200 block of Buckner Road in Maynardville.
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When firefighters arrived, they found the home engulfed in flames. Paulette VFD Chief Daniel Rice said multiple propane tanks exploded because of the fire.
One Paulette volunteer firefighter was taken to the hospital because of heat-related injuries. Rice said there were also children at the scene who suffered minor smoke inhalation.
How to keep yourself safe this Fourth of July weekend
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Although fireworks may be part of many Fourth of July celebrations, fire officials in East Tennessee warn that setting off fireworks can be dangerous, potentially causing wildfires. In addition to taking safety precautions, it is also important to check local laws before purchasing fireworks, as in some areas, like Knox County, setting off fireworks without a permit is illegal…