The 4th of July can be a very fun and memorable time for friends and family gatherings of all ages. Although, many of us don’t think twice when we light fireworks and sparklers. Don’t be too quick to light them off!
Here’s 4 tips on how to protect your family and friends, pets, as well as yourself from any mishaps this summer.
1 – Make Sure They’re Legal!
Don’t buy fireworks off someone you don’t know, or someone who can promise you they will give them to you for a better price. Chances are, these fireworks are dangerous and may actually explode in ways they were not intended to.
2 – One at a Time
Do not light multiple fireworks at once OR without adult supervision. Have a parent or trusted adult light them for you and move back quickly! Avoid getting too close, because fireworks are unpredictable and can cause severe burns.
[Some pets react unpredictably to firework scatter, so keep an eye on where your pets are.]
3 – Don’t Touch
Wait for an adult to pick up post-lit fireworks or sparklers. If any fireworks did not light or malfunction, do not attempt to re-light them. Un-lit fireworks may explode without warning and cause burns on the hands and face, as well as other parts of the body that are exposed.
[Hold sparklers away from you and others’ faces and drop them when they get too close to your hand or when they’re done lighting.]
4 – Water
If your fireworks and sparklers won’t go out, keep a bucket of water or a hose handy to extinguish the fire. Don’t be afraid to use water in situations like these!
Last but not least, make sure to have fun!
With around 1300 fireworks and 600 sparklers being lit each year on the days leading up to, on, and after the 4th of July, firework related accidents lead to 73% of firework users injured. About 10,200 people have been injured in 2022, and 38% of those injuries consisted of bodily burns.
Always take firework safety consideration and use precautions this 4th of July, but most of all, don’t forget to have fun and make memories!
Click here to see how to be safe outside this summer!
