Fireworks Safety Tips

www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks/

Even though Americans use pyrotechnics to commemorate holidays and special events throughout the year, it’s a natural fit that we celebrate National Fireworks Safety Month in July – what’s an Independence Day celebration without fireworks?

Even though they add a festive touch to celebrations, fireworks can be hazardous to your family’s health and home:

• Fireworks, including sparklers (often considered to be kid-friendly), can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees and cause injuries ranging from simple to 3^rd degree burns, to loss of fingers or other extremities, and even death.
• According to the National Fire Protection Association, more fires are reported on the 4^th of July than on any other day, and almost half of these fires are caused by Americans shooting off rockets in their yards.

Also: get an instant Florida homeowners insurance quote to protect your home from mishaps and perils.

Heed These Suggestions to Limit Fireworks Hazards

The easiest way to prevent fireworks injuries is to leave it to the pros: on most holidays, pyrotechnics experts will be illuminating the night sky in locations throughout the state, including theme parks. Pack up some snacks, a few folding chairs and your family, and take a drive to a fireworks display near you.

But if your heart is set on having a do-it-yourself fireworks show, make sure you review and follow all local fireworks laws, and buy your fireworks from an approved vendor. A visit to the emergency room or from the fire department is bad enough; getting arrested would really take the fizzle out of your 4^th!

Related post: 4^th of July Fun Facts

These tips will help you enjoy your fireworks celebration safely and responsibly:

Firework Safety Do’s

• Be cautious of loose clothing. Stop, drop and roll if your clothes catch on fire
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap
• Thoroughly douse all spent fireworks  before tossing them out
• Clear away any dry vegetation and debris from the area before igniting any fireworks
• Always have a water source, full bucket of water and/or fire-extinguisher, close at hand
• Make sure your pets are indoors before you begin, to reduce the risk they will run loose or get injured. Animals have sensitive ears and can be frightened or stressed during a fireworks celebration
• Use safety eyewear, glasses or goggles, to protect your eyes while igniting fireworks.
• Be sure matches, lighters and any unused fireworks are out of the sight and reach of children before, during and after your celebration
• Clean up all debris

Firework Safety Don’ts

• Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and discard
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers
• Never use homemade and/or illegal fireworks
• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks

Keep your holiday celebration from becoming an explosive event – use extreme caution when handling fireworks. Share your fireworks safety tips below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog to have helpful hints delivered directly to your email address.

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