Independence Day is synonymous with fireworks and celebrating. They are a fun way to commemorate the holiday and enjoy a bit of excitement. Though awe-inspiring, fireworks can also be dangerous if not handled properly. It is important to use caution while enjoying this festivity.
Take the most commonly believed “safe firework” for kids and adults: sparklers! Did you know that sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees? This is hot enough to melt some metals! In recent years, over 12,000 people were injured in fireworks related events. Of that number, nearly half were injuries to children and young adults.
Fort Bend County Emergency Services District 7 (FBCESD 7) wants our neighbors to be able to enjoy this holiday weekend safely. It is possible to enjoy fireworks while still being safe, just remember to steer clear of short fuses and suspicious packaging.
According to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC):
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper as 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.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Be sure to 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 of a garden hose handy in case of fire.
- Light fireworks one at a time.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- After fireworks have burned out, douse the spent device with water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
- If you dispose of fireworks in the trash, keep the bin at least 20 feet from the house in case of secondary flames or burning. Do not store it in the garage.
- Be sure that fireworks are legal in your area before you buy or use them.
FBCESD 7 and Fresno Fire Department hopes that you and your family have safe holiday weekend. If you have any further questions, please check out the Fort Bend County Fire Marshall Website.
Did you find this article on firework safety helpful? Share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and NextDoor!