Fireworks Safety

June 27, 2017
Posted by Andy Darnell

With the Fourth of July slowly creeping up behind us it’s only fitting that we create a post for you guys about Firework Safety. *cues fireworks* According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 other fires. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and an average of $43 million in direct property damage. On top of that, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 11,900 people for fireworks related injuries; 51% of those injuries were to the extremities and 41% were to the head all in 2015 alone.

Simply stated, fireworks can cause a lot of harm if they are not used properly. This is why we have decided to throw this list of tips together! Check them out:

DON’T LET SMALL CHILDREN PLAY WITH FIREWORKS OR SPARKLERS. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000
Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Keep a safe distance after lighting fireworks.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
Light fireworks one at a time.
Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
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.
Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.