Stay Safe this Fourth of July

Fireworks Safety Tips

Every year almost 10,000 Americans are injured by fireworks. The majority of the injuries (64%) occur between June 22 and July 22. Most of the injuries involve the hands and fingers (38%), another 19% involve the eyes, and almost 50% of the wounds are burns.

Many people believe that items like sparklers and bottle rockets are safe, but in reality these, along with other Class C fireworks, Roman candles, and fountains, can account for two-thirds of fireworks injuries. These are illegal in many states. Illegal fireworks account for about 29% of fireworks injuries. 

Here are some tips to help you and the little ones stay safe this fourth of July!

Public Shows are Best

• Do not use any fireworks at home. Instead, attend public fireworks display shows and leave the lighting to the professionals. Most public shows are free.
• If you plan to use fireworks at home, make sure they are legal in your area.

Be Extra Careful With Sparklers

• Only children above the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers. They can burn up to1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. That is hotter than what it takes to melt glass and aluminum.
• Closely supervise children around fireworks at all times.

Take the Necessary Precautions

• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
• Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances. 
• ·Don’t carry fireworks in your pocket.
• ·Don’t drink alcohol and light fireworks.
• ·Don’t assume you know how to use the fireworks. Read the directions and warning labels. If they do not have any, do not use them.
• Consider your pets when planning to shoot off fireworks. If you have a pet that may chase a fast moving target, or a pet that will be frightened, put them in the house to keep safe until the display is over.
• · Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
• ·Don’t’ throw fireworks at people.
• · Fireworks should be kept in a cool, dry place.
• · Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher handy.
•  Only light one firework at a time and move several feet away from it after it is lit.
• ·Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Only use legal fireworks.
• Purchase fireworks from a reliable dealer.
• Wear safety goggles when lighting fireworks.
•  Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
•  Do not try to relight a firework if it does not go off. Douse it with water and dispose of it.
• After the firework display, never allow children to pick up fireworks that may be left over, they      may still be active.

Be Prepared for an Accident or Injury

• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
• Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
• If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don't allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage.

 (http://trib.in/1cA3DA0) Stay safe and Happy 4th of July!