Saturday, July 4, 2020

Preventing Fireworks Injuries

The Fourth of July is a time to enjoy fireworks with family and friends. However, this year the COVID-19 environment may put a damper on traditional Independence Day celebrations. 

John Adams set off the first commemorative Independence Day fireworks in 1777. Since then, the nation has celebrated this holiday by staging pyrotechnic extravaganza shows with live music and family fun, or just by lighting smaller displays at home.

The thrill of fireworks could be ruined by unexpected explosions and injuries. No one wants the drama of dealing with an accident.

Follow these safety tips: 

  • Before using fireworks, make sure they are permitted in your local area.
  • Read the label and performance description before igniting the fireworks.
  • The Federal Aviation Administration prohibits the transportation of fireworks in your luggage.
  • Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal/glass containers.
  • Have a responsible adult supervise all fireworks activities. Do not allow children to play with fireworks.
  • Don't take your pet to a public fireworks event; they can be traumatized by noise.
  • Use fireworks only outdoors and keep them away from vehicles and buildings. Do not point the fireworks at a person, an animal or a structure.
  • Wear fire retardant clothes, safety glasses and safety gloves before shooting fireworks. Most fireworks-related injuries involve hands and fingers (46%) and eyes (17%). 
  • Always have a water hose and a fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Light one firework at a time and then back up to a safe distance. Never try to re-light a firework. Wait 10 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Dispose of fireworks by placing them in a metal trash can.
  • Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.Report illegal explosives to the Fire or Police Departments.

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