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It's best to leave holiday fireworks to the pros

June 29, 2009

With warm weather and family events, the Fourth of July can be a fun time with great memories. But before your family celebrates, make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety.

If not handled properly, fireworks can cause burn and eye injuries in kids and adults. In 2003, six deaths were linked to fireworks and hospital emergency departments treated 9,300 fireworks injuries.

The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home — period. Attend public fireworks displays, and leave the lighting to the professionals. Lighting fireworks at home isn't even legal in many areas, so if you still want to use them, be sure to check with your local police department first.

If fireworks are legal where you live, keep these safety tips in mind:

— Kids should never play with fireworks. Things like firecrackers, rockets, and sparklers are just too dangerous. If you give kids sparklers, make sure they keep them outside and away from the face, clothing and hair. Sparklers can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit — hot enough to melt gold.

— Buy only legal fireworks (legal fireworks have a label with the manufacturer's name and directions; illegal ones are unlabeled), and store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster or quarter pounder. These explosives were banned in 1966, but still account for many fireworks injuries.

— Never try to make your own fireworks.

— Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.

— Steer clear of others — fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone.

— Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting. Wear some sort of eye protection, and avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket — the friction could set them off.

— Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush and leaves and flammable substances. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that local fire departments respond to more than 50,000 fires caused by fireworks each year.

— Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers), and never re-light a dud.

— Don't allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.

— Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can.

Don't forget to think about your pet. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.

Fireworks are meant to be enjoyed, but you'll enjoy them much more knowing your family is safe. Take extra precautions this Fourth of July and your holiday will be a blast!

Submitted on behalf of Clark County Health Department

Article taken from: www.kidshealth.org

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