Just a reminder about fireworks safety: with fireworks being more accessible to consumers, the risk of injuries increases. It’s important to remember that the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by leaving the shows to trained professionals. Attending public fireworks displays is much safer than using consumer fireworks. However, if you do choose to light your own fireworks, be sure to follow all local and state laws, as well as the firework instructions and warning labels. It’s essential to wear protective eyewear when handling fireworks, and onlookers should also wear eye protection, as almost half of the people injured by fireworks are bystanders. If an eye injury does occur, seek immediate medical attention and avoid rubbing, rinsing, or applying pressure to the injured eye, or removing any objects stuck in the eye.
“Firework Safety Tips
In the City of Pittsburgh, as well as other surrounding communities, it is illegal to set off fireworks within 150 feet of a building – which is 10 car lengths.
Never ever allow children to handle any type of fireworks– not even sparklers. Sparklers can reach temperatures upwards of 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to melt gold. They can ignite clothing or cause severe burns, so they are not toys for young children.”
Keep these safety tips in mind!
• Make sure to keep them outside. never light fireworks indoors and have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of an accident.
• Buy only legal fireworks – They are labeled with the manufacturer’s name and directions, store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks usually go by 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.
• Steer clear of others setting off fireworks. They can backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction.
• Remember, the danger of fireworks should not be taken lightly. 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 eye protection.
• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket because the friction could cause them to ignite.
• Point fireworks away from homes, vehicles, brush, leaves, and flammable substances.
• Never light multiple fireworks! Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.
• Never relight a “dud”.
• Never light a firework in a glass or metal container, the firework may explode causing debris to fly.
• Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some fireworks may still be lit and can explode at any time.
• After fireworks have burned out, douse them with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before disposing of them to prevent a potential trash fire.
• Alcohol and fireworks don’t mix. Save the drinking until after the fireworks.
And let’s not forget the safety of our pets!
• Make sure your pets – cats and dogs alike – have identification tags or microchips with up-to-date information.
• Don’t bring your pets to a fireworks display, not even a small one, as you never know when they might take off.
• If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound. Play calming music in the room your pet is confined to or give your pet a new or favorite toy to get its attention off the noise.
• Never shoot fireworks of any kind (consumer fireworks, sparklers, fountains, etc.) near pets.
• Take a current photo of all your cats and dogs, just in case they do get loose.
• If you are expecting guests, kindly request them to be mindful and help ensure that your pets do not escape. Placing notes on exit doors and gates can serve as helpful reminders.
• Make sure to keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks, and charcoal away from curious pets.
Let’s all have a safe and happy 4th of July!
Sources:
http://visionsource.com/blog/fireworks-eye-safety-tips/
http://www.fireworkssafety.org/safety-tips/
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/fireworks.html
https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/Fireworks_Report_2017.pdf?Jr0lMG0Z5QYQMTyUtYr_3GR.991BKn4l
www.nsc.org
https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/July-4-Safety.aspx
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