Fireworks Safety
- Did you know that fireworks are dangerous, and can cause serious burn
and eye injuries? Each year, over 8000 people are injured using fireworks.
- Over the past 10 years, 30-33 percent of the injuries associated with
fireworks have typically been caused by illegal explosives or homemade fireworks.
- Children should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets,
and spinners are just too dangerous. If you give your child a sparkler,
make sure he keeps it outside and away from his face, clothing, and hair.
Sparklers can reach 1800 degrees Fahrenheit - hot enough to melt gold -
and according to Prevent Blindness America, are the second leading cause
of fireworks injuries requiring trips to the emergency room.
- Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's
name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool,
dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster,
or quarterpounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account
for one third of all fireworks injuries.
- Never try to make your own fireworks.
- Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby
in case of accidents.
- Steer clear of others - fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot
off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even
in jest.
- Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over
them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying
fireworks in your pocket - the friction could set them off.
- Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush and leaves
and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates
that local fire departments respond to more 50,000 fires caused by fireworks
each year.
- Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and
never relight a dud.
- Don't allow your child to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event.
Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash
can.
- Think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely
frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep your pet indoors to reduce
the risk that he will run loose or injure himself.
Information Provided by: http://www.kidshealth.org
