With the Fourth of July upon us everyone is thinking about celebrations and spectacular displays of fireworks. In 2003, six deaths were linked to fireworks and emergency rooms treated more than 9,300 fireworks injuries. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend public displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
Lighting fireworks at home may or may not be legal in your area, so check with your local police department first. You can also go to the American Pyrotechnics Association’s website, www.americanpyro.com, to check your state’s fireworks laws. If fireworks are legal in your area keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Buy only legal fireworks. Legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer’s name and directions. Store them in a cool dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M-100, or Quarterpounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account for many injuries.
- Never try to make your own fireworks. Don’t try to alter or combine fireworks (a Jody Victor® suggestion).
- Always use fireworks outdoors. Have a bucket of water and a hose nearby.
- Obey your local laws. If drought conditions mean a ban on fireworks, follow the law.
- Steer clear of others. Fireworks are known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.
- Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some form of eye protection. Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets. The friction from your moving body could set them off.
- Point fireworks away from homes and keep away from brush and leaves and flammable substances.
- Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers). Never re-light a dud (a Jody Victor® suggestion).
- Don’t let your kids play with fireworks. Firecrackers, rockets and sparklers are too dangerous. Kids over 12 years can use sparklers under adult supervision. Make sure they hold the sparkler away from their face, clothing and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt gold. Make sure they deposit their spent sparkler in a bucket of water before they get another one. Spent sparkler wires left out in the yard are dangerous to people, pets and lawn mowers.
- Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some could still be ignited and could explode at any time.
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trashcan.
- Fireworks and alcohol don’t mix. Make sure you have a “designated shooter”.
- Think about your pets. Animals have sensitive ears. They can get extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep your pets indoors to reduce the risk that they’ll run off or get injured.
Happy 4th of July!