Fireworks Safety Tips for This 4th of July

While fireworks are undoubtedly fun to watch and a summertime tradition, inspiring unforgettable times and memories, you don’t want that 4th of July memory to include a trip to the emergency room because of fireworks injuries.

In 2009, fireworks injuries ranging from severe burns to the loss of limbs sent 9,000 people to emergency rooms across the nation and caused two deaths. 21% of all firework injuries are eye-related and over half the victims are young children or teenagers. In fact, children aged 5-14 have a doubled risk of attaining a firework injury in comparison to the rest of the population. Furthermore, of every six firework caused eye injuries, one causes blindness. Additionally, in 2010, fireworks caused an estimated 15,500 fires.

And, while products like sparklers may seem harmless, they burn at 1,200 degrees, a high enough temperature to melt gold, and are the cause of 27% of all firework injuries. In order to prevent fires and use these fun but hazardous fireworks securely, several safety tips should be followed:

Obey all local firework laws

Use common sense: do not use homemade fireworks, do not let children play with or use them, and ensure that spectators are viewing fireworks from a safe distance

Wear safety glasses when setting off fireworks

Set fireworks off away from any dry vegetation to avoid starting a fire

Always have water handy and soak all used fireworks in a bucket of water for at least 20 minutes after use

Never combine fireworks, and use only as directed

Pets should never be around fireworks

No one under the influence of alcohol should ever use fireworks

Children under the age of 12 should never be permitted to use sparklers, and they should always be used under adult supervision

If a firework accident does occur, immediately seek medical attention

However, experts report that the best as well as safest idea is to attend a public display preformed by trained professionals in order to avoid incidents. At a public display, the best way to remain safe is to:

View fireworks from at least 500 feet away

Respect all barriers and restrictions set up by firework professionals

If you find unexploded fireworks, do not touch them and immediately alert the local police or fire department

To find a firework show near you this season, visit http://find.mapmuse.com/map/fireworks.

Related Articles:

July is National Fireworks Safety Month
Fourth of July Barbeque Tips 10
Staying Safe in the Summer 

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