Sitting around the pond or backyard as guys in the family set off a display of fireworks on the Fourth of July is one of my favorite things to do. There’s also an element of danger, including fires, explosions, and fireworks-related injuries. To truly enjoy fireworks safely, taking safety measures is imperative.
According to the 2021 Fireworks report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in June 2021, there was a 25% increase in the number of fireworks injuries from the years 2006 – 2021. There were nine reported fireworks related deaths in 2021.
How to Safely Use Fireworks
- Read the instructions before lighting your fireworks to ensure you’re using them correctly.
- Light fireworks outside in a clear, open area away from other people and flammable materials. Children and pets should be kept far away from the area.
- Never attempt to relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited, as this can increase the risk of accidental injury or fire. Instead, wait until they have completely cooled down before discarding them properly.
- Have a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of any accidental fires.
- Don’t let children handle fireworks or ignite fireworks, including firecrackers and sparklers. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees and account for more than one-quarter of fireworks injuries. Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities, especially with sparklers. Never allow young children to play with fireworks.
- Don’t use fireworks if you have been drinking alcohol or are impaired in any way.
- Postpone your fireworks display if it’s windy. The wind can blow sparks to nearby buildings, trees, or grass.
- Wear safety glasses when lighting fireworks.
- Don’t carry fireworks in your pocket. The friction may set them off.
- Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or place any part of your body directly over them when igniting the fuse.
- Never carry fireworks in plastic, metal, or glass containers.
- Never point or throw fireworks at someone. Spectators should keep a safe distance.
- Light one firework at a time, then step back quickly. Don’t try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks or pieces of fireworks.
How to Safely Store Fireworks
- Store the fireworks outside your home and away from living areas. A locked storage shed is ideal. Keeping fireworks dry is essential, so be mindful of where you store them.
- If you must keep fireworks in a moisture-prone area, such as a greenhouse, basement, or attic, wrap them up tightly in sealed plastic bags.
- Don’t store fireworks or other explosives in self-storage units.
- Store fireworks away from heat or ignition sources and flammable materials.
- Lock fireworks securely in a cabinet or other container if small children or pets have access to the location.
Fireworks are a fantastic source of entertainment, so make sure you handle them responsibly.
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Whether your home or business has undergone a fire, water, or mold emergency, PuroClean is here to help. Using our state-of-the-art equipment, our skilled technicians promptly get to work. Visit our website or give us a call at 423-790-3500 to get connected with your local office today. From Charles Atkins and all of PuroClean Property Damage Experts of Cleveland, Tennessee have a very safe and happy Fourth weekend! You might want to check out our local Cleveland, TN July 4th fireworks by clicking HERE.
