While Labor Day is this weekend, some people use fireworks to celebrate, but they can also cause damage and injuries. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), fireworks cause an average 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 17,000 other fires resulting in thousands of injuries each year.
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend public displays at a safe distance from the show. Let the experts handle the pyrotechnics. If you want to use fireworks yourself, always follow safety precautions. Here are some important tips to stay safe when using fireworks.
How to Use Fireworks Safely
- Obey fireworks laws- Each state has its own laws, and regulations regarding consumer fireworks, so it’s important to learn and follow the fireworks laws in your state. Also, purchase products that comply with your state, city, or town’s rules. Remember: fireworks are not allowed on airplanes and in checked and carryon baggage.
- Only purchase legal fireworks- They have a label with the manufacturer’s name and instructions. Don’t buy fireworks packaged in brown paper, which could be made for professional displays. Illegal fireworks are unlabeled, and their names include M-80, M100, blockbuster, and quarter pounder, among others. Although they were banned in 1966 for safety reasons, some people still make and sell them.
- Keep fireworks safe and dry- Store fireworks in a plastic or metal container with a secure lid. Keep the container outside your home and away from living areas, preferably in a locked storage shed. Make sure the storage area is cool and dry and that fireworks aren’t close to heat sources.
Use fireworks with caution:
- Always read the instructions and safety precautions on the label.
- Never allow children to handle fireworks, not even firecrackers or sparklers. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals.
- If you have been drinking or are chemically impaired, don’t use fireworks!
- Only use fireworks outside, in a spacious area, and away from homes, trees, vehicles, and other objects.
- If it’s windy outside, postpone your fireworks display.
- Have a bucket of water and a hose nearby in case of accidents.
- Wear safety glasses.
- When lighting the fuse, do not hold fireworks in your hand or place any part of your body over them.
- Never shoot fireworks in plastic, metal, or glass containers.
Discard spent fireworks safely- Wait 20 minutes after lighting, then soak firework duds in a bucket of water.
How to Stay Safe During Fireworks Displays
- When attending a firework show, stay at least 500 feet away from the launching site and do not cross safety barriers
- Do not touch unexploded fireworks remains.
How to Protect Your Pets from Fireworks
- Do not bring pets to a fireworks display. Animals have sensitive ears and can easily get scared by loud noises.
- If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pets in a safe, interior room where the sound will be low. Play some comforting music and give pets toys to help distract them.
- Make sure your pets wear ID tags even if you keep them at home. They may run off due to the sound of fireworks.
- Never shoot fireworks near pets.
Remember — by using fireworks, you may put yourself and others at risk. Apply these guidelines before igniting fireworks or attending displays so you and your guests can stay safe.
If a fire occurs in your home, contact a professional restoration company to bring your property back to pre-loss condition. Proper fire and smoke damage restoration require the services of a professional restoration company that can quickly and efficiently do the job. Our PuroClean technicians are highly trained in property damage restoration and respond at once to reduce the impact of the loss. For professional fire, water, mold, or biohazard remediation services, call our office.
