As you prepare for the Fourth of July, here is everything you need to know about fireworks and how to keep your family safe.
Fireworks can be dangerous especially if not handled with care. They can result in injuries to the eyes and skin in both adults and children.
Attend a Public Fireworks Display
The best rule of thumb is to avoid popping fireworks at home. Instead, attend a public fireworks display. In most cases, the city, baseball parks and local amusement parks offer a fireworks display for the Fourth.
Furthermore, popping fireworks in some areas is actually illegal. Before you plan to use fireworks at home, make sure to check with the city that you can.
Home Firework Safety
If fireworks are legal where you live and you are planning on popping fireworks this holiday, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Do not allow young children to play with or light fireworks. Even sparklers can result in injuries. Sparklers burn at a temperature of about 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure your children keep the sparklers away from their face, hair and clothes. Having your children play with glow sticks is a safer alternative.
- Always have an adult available to supervise.
- Only purchase legal fireworks. Legal fireworks will indicate the manufacturer and directions. Illegal fireworks may be found under the names M80 and M100.
- Do not purchase fireworks that are packaged in brown paper. These fireworks are more than likely for professional use only.
- Do not throw or point fireworks at another person.
- Light one firework at a time.
- Do not put fireworks in your pocket.
- Do not light fireworks in glass or metal containers.
- Stay clear of others.
- Never light a firework while still holding it.
- Point fireworks away from houses, vehicles or brush/leaves.
- Have a bucket of water or hose nearby just in case.
Protecting Your Family
- Wear eye protection.
- Protect your ears.
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before discarding them.
- Keep your pet safe. Not only can fireworks hurt your pet's ears, they can scare them. Keep them inside if possible to avoid them getting loose or hurt.
If an injury occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
