Fireworks Safety

Novelty items such as snappers, snap caps, glow worms, snakes, party poppers, toy smoke devices, and sparklers are OK to use. If you’re going to use consumer fireworks please follow our safety tips.

Fireworks:

In 2010, 8,600 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms according to the National Fire Protection Association. The National Safety Council advises the best way to safely enjoy this July is to watch a public fireworks display conducted by professionals.

General Tips:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks – older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision.
• Light fireworks one at a time, in a clear outdoor area away from onlookers, houses and flammable materials.
• Do not aim fireworks at another individual and never place any part of your body over a firework.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire, and do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
• If you are in an area experiencing drought-like conditions, reconsider using fireworks due to the increase in fire risk.
• And remember, if your house burns down due to illegal fireworks most insurance will not pay.

Drowning:

In 2010, unintentional drowning claimed the lives of 3,600 people.

• When visiting a pool, water park or body of water this holiday, pay close attention to children at all times – a lifeguard may be present, but they should not be considered a babysitter.
• Teach your children to never swim alone or dive into unknown bodies of water and to always use approved flotation devices.
• Avoid using alcohol in and around the water – according to CDC, among adolescents and adults, alcohol use is involved in up to 70% of deaths associated with water recreation, almost a quarter of emergency room visits for drowning and about one in five reported boating deaths.

Hot Weather:

• This time of year is ideal for celebrations but can present serious hazards, especially to children and the elderly.
• Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are serious, life-threatening illnesses characterized by an extreme rise in body temperature.

If you are concerned that someone is suffering from overheating, move them to the shade and call for emergency assistance, if necessary.