July 4th is right around the corner to celebrate our Independence and what better way to celebrate than with fireworks! Who doesn’t love fireworks?!? With all the excitement we still need to keep safety in mind. I’ve been doing some research about fireworks safety and wanted to pass it on to you.
How do you find out what fireworks are legal in your state? Each state is different which is why it’s important to check your state laws to see what or if any fireworks are legal. I came across American Pyrotechnics Associations website and they have pretty much done the work for you. If you click here you will be directed to their State Law Directory page. There you will find what consumer fireworks are or not allowed. If you do find that fireworks are legal in your state, please keep in mind they can cause injury if not used properly.
According to CPSC.gov who conducted a fireworks injuries study in 2015 from June 19 – July 19, found that:
- 260 people on average go to the emergency room every day in the month around July 4th holiday.
- 67% of injuries occurred during the month surrounding July 4th.
- 11 people died due to 11 fireworks-related incidents.
- The most injured body parts were hands and fingers coming in at 32% with heads, faces, and ears coming in next at 25%.
- The most injuries by fireworks type were Sparklers coming in at 24%.
- The age group of 25-44 had the most injuries at 35% with 15-19 coming in at 16%.
- Injuries by Gender: Male 61%; Female 39%
Now that you have an overview of fireworks related injuries, let’s go over some fireworks safety tips.
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Know your fireworks, read the labels.
- A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities.
- Never give fireworks to children. Sparklers can heat up to 2,000 degrees.
- Alcohol, drugs and fireworks do not mix.
- Wear safety glasses.
- Do not wear loose clothing.
- Light one firework at a time and move quickly away.
- Never place any part of your body over a firework device when lighting the fuse.
- Use fireworks outside in a clear area and away from flammable substances.
- Never relight a “Dud” firework. Instead, wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Always have a bucket of water and a water hose close by. A fire extinguisher is handy too.
- Never carry fireworks in your pockets or shoot them into in metal or glass containers.
- Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in a bucket of water and placing in a metal trash can away from anything.
- Make sure all pets and animals are away from the fireworks noise
- Don’t point or throw fireworks at people.
- FAA regulations Prohibit the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
Now, with all that being said, Happy 4th of July! Be safe and enjoy your fireworks!