With the warm weather and family outings, fireworks are part of the celebrations happening this month. Make sure everyone in the family knows the tips to staying safe. If not handled properly, fireworks can easily cause burn and eye injuries in kids and adults. The best way to avoid injury is to avoid fireworks at home and attend a public display if you can.
Lighting fireworks at home is not legal in many neighborhoods. Check first to see about your area. If they are legal in your neighborhood, please keep these safety tips in mind.
Tips:
Kids should never play with fireworks. Sparklers are a favorite so if kids do use them make sure they are outside and there is a bucket of water close by for the ones already lit. Sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit, hot enough to melt gold.
Buy only legal fireworks. The illegal fireworks usually go by the names M-80, M100, blockbuster, or quarterpounder. These were banned in 1966, but still account for many fireworks injuries.
Never try to make your own fireworks
Always use fireworks outside and have a bucket of water and hose nearby.
Steer clear of others, don’t hold fireworks in your hands and point fireworks away from homes.
Light one firework at a time (not in glass or metal containers) and NEVER relight a dud.
Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited or very hot and the danger of burns is still present.
Think about your pet: animals have sensitive ears and can become extremely frightened or stressed during fireworks displays. Keep them at home or indoors
Injuries:
If your child is injured, go immediately to the Dr. or Hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don’t allow your child to touch or rub it. This may worsen the damage. Don’t try to rinse out the eye or put ointment on it. Instead, cut out the bottom of a paper cup and place it around the eye, immediately seeking medical attention.
Fireworks are a fun tradition for many families and meant to be fun. Take extra precautions so your family has an enjoyable and safe experience. It will be a Blast!