Fourth of July is just around the corner and already next week which means fireworks and family fun! Although fireworks are fun, they can be very dangerous causing fires and deadly injuries. According to the National Safety Council, due to fireworks an average of 18,500 fires happen each year and about 200 people in the month of July go the emergency room everyday due to firework- related injuries. These injuries range from head, face, ear, arm, leg, hand, or finger and 34% occur to people between ages 24-44. Although, children aged 5-9 are more than twice as likely as other age groups to be injured by fireworks.
To keep yourself, friends and loved ones safe this holiday continue reading for some firework safety tips.
Tips to Celebrate Safely
- Make sure to purchase legal fireworks from your area and labeled for consumer use.
- Never leave young children alone with fireworks or to handle on their own, this includes sparklers.
- Safer options for children are glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby, in case of a fire.
- Never light them indoors.
- Do not use fireworks while being impaired by drugs or on alcohol.
- If using fireworks or nearby, consider using protective eye wear.
- Light fireworks one at a time and make sure to move as quickly as possible after lighting.
- Do not relight or use a malfunctioning firework. To discard, soak them in water and throw them away.
- Never point or throw fireworks including sparklers towards no one.
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