Fireworks Safety Guidelines
June is National Fireworks Safety Month. As July 4th approaches, family and neighborhood events often include fireworks as the centerpiece of their celebrations. Although it is generally acknowledged that fireworks are extremely dangerous, many safety measures are ignored, frequently turning a celebration into a tragic event. According to The US Consumer Product Safety Commission 2005 Annual Report, an estimated 10,800 patients treated in hospital emergency rooms involved fireworks. Approximately 60% of those injuries occurred between June 18, 2005 and July 18, 2005. Injuries to children under 15 accounted for 45% of the estimated injuries. Sparklers were responsible for almost half of the injuries to children under the age of 5. The most common injuries were burns, followed by various eye injuries.
By far, the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave them to the professionals. Fireworks are not legal in all states. Check your state laws to determine what types of fireworks are allowed or prohibited and the regulations governing their use. Included below are the US Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines:
1) Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
2) Read and follow all instructions and warnings.
3) Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
4) Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
5) Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
6) Keep a bucket of water in case of a malfunction or fire.
Numerous sites provide more safety tips for fireworks. Links to other organizations are listed below:
Adults Who Care
Pediatrics Guide
National Council on Fireworks Safety
National Fire Protection Agency
Keep Kids Healthy
National Safety Council
Prevent Blindness America