The 4th of July is just around the corner and with this celebration of America’s Independence comes many great opportunities such as BBQ’s, parades, social gatherings and outdoor water recreation activities. All of these can be very enjoyable events; however, this day is notorious for being the busiest day of the year for emergency rooms nationwide; particularly as it related to firework-involved incidents. On average, emergency rooms see an average of 230 firework-related injuries per day in the month around the July 4th holiday.
So, find how can we effectively balance our holiday fun with holiday safety? Follow these safety tips if and when using fireworks:
• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• 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 spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.
For more information visit the National Council on Fireworks Safety @ http://www.fireworkssafety.org/safety-tips
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