Fireworks are synonymous with our celebration of Independence Day. Yet, the thrill of fireworks can also bring pain.
As the Independence Day holiday approaches, many people may be planning to launch fireworks at home with immediate family as an alternative to the large gatherings and celebrations of previous years.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2019 Fireworks Annual Report, fireworks were involved in an estimated 10,000 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments during 2019, with hands and fingers being among the most injured body parts. Of the noted 10,000 injuries, an estimated 73% were treated between June 21st and July 21st.
Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. You can help us prevent fireworks-related injuries and deaths. How? By working with a national, state or local organization where you live to promote fireworks safety in your community.
Follow these safety tips when using fireworks:
Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
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.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
Sources: https://www.hiltonheadregional.com/
https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks
