As the Fourth of July approaches, friends and family gather together and traditionally fireworks are part of the Independence Day celebrations. Regrettably, though, inadequate care in using fireworks, at times, leads to tragedy.
In 2007, it is estimated that the number of people treated with fireworks related injuries at U.S. hospital emergency rooms, was 9,800.
Help reduce the number of fireworks related injuries by following the safety tips put out by the National Council of Fireworks Safety.
Fireworks Safety Tips:
(1) Always have water handy. (A hose or bucket).
(2) Only use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter them or combine them.
(3) Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
(4) Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.
(5) Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a “designated shooter.”
(6) Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.
(7) Do not ever use homemade fireworks of illegal explosives: They can kill you! Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.
Please be safe as you and your family celebrate the Fourth of July.
