Fireworks are a Fourth of July staple. The dazzling colors and entertaining displays draw countless people to local events across the nation. Yet, we all need to be careful and mindful of the dangers posed by fireworks to ourselves as well as to others. Please keep these tips in mind as you go about your holiday festivities.
Preventing Firework-Related Injuries
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), thousands of people (primarily teens and children) are injured while using fireworks each Independence Day. These injuries can include burns, cuts, permanent scarring, loss of vision, dismemberment and even death. Additionally, more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day during the year, half of these fires being attributed to mishandling fireworks. NFPA reports that, based on the amount of time and quantity of use, fireworks pose a higher risk of fire death than any other consumer product.
Remember: fireworks may be legal, but they are not safe. The best way to enjoy fireworks is to watch displays from a distance and conducted by trained professionals.
Firework Safety Tips
If you choose to use legal fireworks, be sure to follow the following safety tips outlined by the National Safety Council:
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks
- Older children should use them only under close adult supervision
- Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear
- Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands
- Never light them indoors
- Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person
- Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting
- Never ignite devices in a container
- Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
- Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding
- Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire
- Never use illegal fireworks
Better yet, grab a blanket and a patch of lawn, kick back and let the experts handle the fireworks show.
