The Fourth of July is coming up, and communities across the country are planning fireworks displays. It’s best to leave fireworks to professionals, but if you want to put on your own Independence Day show, be sure to choose appropriate fireworks and know how to use them safely.
Make Sure Fireworks Are Legal
First, verify that buying and lighting fireworks are legal where you live. Many communities prohibit amateur use of fireworks for safety reasons. Check with your local police department.
Only buy legal fireworks labeled with the manufacturer’s name and instructions. Illegal fireworks won’t be labeled. Fireworks wrapped in a brown paper may be intended only for professional use and may be extremely dangerous if set off by an inexperienced person. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Don’t put fireworks in your pocket because friction could cause them to go off. Never attempt to make your own fireworks.
How to Use Fireworks Safely
If you will set off fireworks, point them away from houses, trees, grass, leaves, and other flammable substances. Never point a firework at anyone, even as a joke. Spectators should stay a safe distance away in case a firework goes off in an unexpected direction.
Wear safety glasses or goggles and light one firework at a time. Don’t hold fireworks in your hand or stand over them when lighting them. If a firework doesn’t ignite on the first try, don’t attempt to light it again.
Don’t let anyone touch fireworks that have already been set off because they may explode. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby to thoroughly soak fireworks before putting them in a trash can.
Never allow children to play with fireworks, firecrackers, rockets, or sparklers. They can burn extremely hot and can cause serious and even life-threatening injuries.
Pets can be frightened or stressed by fireworks. A spooked animal may run off and possibly get injured. Keep pets inside if you will be using fireworks.
What to Do If Someone Gets Hurt
If someone is injured by fireworks, take the person to a hospital or call an ambulance right away. If a person gets burned, remove clothing from the affected area so the fabric won’t stick to the skin. If someone suffers an eye injury because of fireworks, don’t let the person touch the eye. Don’t flush the eye with water, remove any objects from it, or apply any ointment. Cover the eye and get the individual to a hospital as quickly as possible.
Be Prepared to Deal with Injuries
Fireworks are dangerous. Attending professional displays is best, but if you want to use fireworks yourself, be sure to do so safely. You should have a first aid kit on hand, just in case. Prompt treatment can prevent further injury before an individual reaches a hospital. Order a first aid kit from 1st Aid Supplies today.
