FIREWORKS SAFETY
Exploding brilliant colored fireworks, backyard barbecues, and roasting marshmallows are the highlights of every July 4th holiday celebration.
Burns are a common cause of injury during the summer months and especially in July. Fire and burns are the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths among children ages fourteen and under.
Approximately 10,000 people suffer fireworks injuries every year, including over 4,000 children ages fourteen and under. Burns resulting from improper use of sparklers and illegal fireworks usually involve the hands, face, arms, and chest areas.
Keep your July holiday activities enjoyable, fun and safe by following these fireworks safety guidelines:
- The best guideline is to leave all fireworks activity to the professionals.
- Check with your local police or fire department to determine what fireworks can be legally discharged in your area.
- Only adults should handle fireworks. Read and follow all instructions with fireworks. All fireworks must carry a warning label to discuss necessary safety precautions.
- Be sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Never place your face or any other part of your body over fireworks.
- Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned. Soak with water and throw them away.
- Keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher handy.
- Only light fireworks on a smooth flat surface away from houses, dry leaves and any other flammable materials.
- Never throw, point or shoot fireworks towards people, buildings, vehicles or wooded areas, especially if the weather has been dry.
- Never hold or get close to any lit fireworks.
- Watch what you wear. Loose clothing can catch fire, and should not be worn while handling fireworks.
-Summer Safety Education Guide (American Burn Association)
