The Fourth of July is meant to be an enjoyable occasion for all. However, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burns and other injuries. There are many ways you can help prevent common fireworks-related injuries and still have a great time.
Follow these safety tips when using fireworks for your Independence Day celebration:
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Leave your pet at home and provide them with a safe place away from the loud sounds.
- Keep spectators at a safe distance.
- Always read and follow directions on the labels.
- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
- Always have a sober adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or another mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
Source: www.cpsc.gov and www.americanpyro.com
