The following information is a reprint from the FEMA National Preparedness Council.
As the Fourth of July quickly approaches, most of us are wrapped up with thinking about barbeques, parades, block parties, gathering with loved ones and obviously, fireworks! Who can say no to the loud flashes of brilliant color lighting up the night sky?
Unfortunately along with these beautiful displays, comes the danger. If not used properly, fireworks can be dangerous especially when fire conditions are extreme. As severe drought continues to plague many regions nationwide increasing the threat of wildfires, its important to celebrate the Fourth of July in the safest way possible.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 200 people on average go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday. Fireworks are dangerous! This Independence Day, protect your family from fireworks. Attend public displays and leave the lighting to the professionals. Additionally, don’t forget that Independence Day occurs during the hottest time of the year, so make sure you stay hydrated and keep out of the sun when the heat is most intense.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in the hopes that injuries to consumers can be greatly reduced this season. It is up to you to use fireworks in a safe and responsible manner:
Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
Know your fireworks; read the caution label before igniting.
Only light one firework at a time.
Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.
Lastly, soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor, fire resistant garbage can away from buildings and flammable materials.
As the Fourth of July quickly approaches, most of us are wrapped up with thinking about barbeques, parades, block parties, gathering with loved ones and obviously, fireworks! Who can say no to the loud flashes of brilliant color lighting up the night sky?
Unfortunately along with these beautiful displays, comes the danger. If not used properly, fireworks can be dangerous especially when fire conditions are extreme. As severe drought continues to plague many regions nationwide increasing the threat of wildfires, its important to celebrate the Fourth of July in the safest way possible.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, over 200 people on average go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday. Fireworks are dangerous! This Independence Day, protect your family from fireworks. Attend public displays and leave the lighting to the professionals. Additionally, don’t forget that Independence Day occurs during the hottest time of the year, so make sure you stay hydrated and keep out of the sun when the heat is most intense.
The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in the hopes that injuries to consumers can be greatly reduced this season. It is up to you to use fireworks in a safe and responsible manner:
Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
Know your fireworks; read the caution label before igniting.
Only light one firework at a time.
Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.
Lastly, soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor, fire resistant garbage can away from buildings and flammable materials.