Firework Safety: The Safe Way to Have a Blast

Firework Safety

The Safe Way to Have a Blast

Did you know that the smallest and simplest of fireworks, such as sparklers can burn at 1200 degrees Fahrenheit? With the 4th of July quickly approaching, we know that many of you will be purchasing, lighting, or watching fireworks. It is important to know the dangers fireworks possess and ways to prevent an accident from occurring.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause 18,500 reported fires each year and cause an annual average of three deaths, 40 injuries, and $43 million in property damage. Most injuries are to the hand or finger and involve people between the ages of 25-44.

There is a safe way to have fun this Independence Day. See below for a list of tips to follow from the National Council on Fireworks Safety.    

• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area and away from buildings and vehicles.
• If you are not familiar with the proper way to light fireworks, do not light fireworks at all. Leave this to the professionals.
• Before igniting a firework, read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions on the box.
• Never give fireworks to children. All firework activities should be supervised by an adult.
• Alcohol and fireworks should not be mixed.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Never shoot fireworks of any kind near pets.
• If you are bringing your pet to a public firework display, make sure your pet has an identification tag, in case it runs off during the show.
• Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• In case of a fire, always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.
• Remember, FAA regulations prohibit the possession and transportation of fireworks in checked baggage or carry-on luggage.