A Safe 4th Of July

The Fourth of July is just around the corner.  All around our great nation families will attend many backyard BBQ’s and citywide events to see what they hope will be a spectacular fireworks show.

As one of those families that hosts the holiday for family and friends, we purchase lots of fireworks.   The question always is, how safe are they and what should you know if you choose to use them?

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to a professionally designed and lighted show.  Spectators are kept far from the actual lighting area, and those who do light the fireworks have had many years training and experience. Often, because these shows are sponsored, they are huge too, which makes them an amazing event for the whole family.

If you do choose to purchase fireworks, here’s some safety tips:

• Find out what the laws in your city are in regards to purchasing and setting off fireworks. Many towns, cities, and states have outlawed the use of fireworks by the general public, so you really do want to make sure that you know what the limitations are where you live!
• Never ever try to create your own fireworks. Experimenting with volatile fireworks is simply asking for injury or worse.
• Be sure to purchase fireworks from a reputable seller. Make sure that there is a state issued license visible before you purchase any fireworks. While people at flea markets and corner stalls may have professional fireworks, unless they are authorized to sell them legally, avoid them.
• Make sure you read and follow the directions given on the packaging of every firework you purchase to ensure that safety comes first.
• Have water nearby when you light the fireworks. A garden hose, bucket with water or both would be good to have for quick action if required.
• Do not, under any circumstances, light fireworks inside your home or even a covered patio area! They are only for outdoor use only. Also, be sure that there are no dry leaves or grass where they will be lit. Keep them far away from houses to avoid catching leaves on the roof on fire.
• Children should not be allowed to use fireworks without an adult present. Burns can happen very easily – even with sparklers. Always err on the side of caution.
• The person who is lighting the fireworks should wear safety glasses during the fireworks show. This is particularly important for the fireworks that shoot into the sky. Do not throw a lit firework toward anyone, and lean away from the firework when lighting it, not over it.
• Keep spectators far away from the actual lighting area.
• Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets and light only one firework at a time.
• Dispose of used fireworks only after saturating them in a bucket of water. If you have unused fireworks, contact your local fire department to find out the best way to store them or dispose of them.

The 4th of July should be a great celebration for families and that looks a little different for all of us! For those who have a city celebration nearby, try it out one year…you never know, it could become an annual tradition.

If you do host it at your home (or go to one hosted), remember the safety tips and have a great 4th. If you are at an event and don’t feel safe about the way they are handling fireworks, don’t hesitate to leave…safety First!