Fireworks are fascinating to watch, but they can be equally dangerous. For most Americans, lighting fireworks and watching fireworks shows on the 4th of July is a tradition. Most firework injuries occur on or around the 4th of July, and more than just manufacturing faults. Lack of safety measures causes injuries and accidental fires.
Don’t be deterred from participating in these community activities or celebrating occasions with your loved ones. Instead, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you that by following proper safety measures, you can enjoy fireworks without dealing with any life-threatening injuries.
Firework Safety Guidelines
For starters, check if fireworks are allowed in your county or city. A firework can cause stupendous damage to life and property in a matter of seconds. So, be very cautious and use common sense. Now let us explore some firework safety guidelines to help you celebrate happy and glorious occasions with your loved ones without ending up in the emergency room.
Adult Supervision is Recommended
Children might be eager to ignite firecrackers, but usually they don’t have experience with them. You have to supervise all firework-related activities as their guardian. Do not let your children play with firecrackers as a toy, because they can get hurt before you know it. Like you would deter them from playing with fire or any other hazardous substance, discourage them from playing with firecrackers and other fireworks on their own.
Safety First
Often firecrackers do not ignite on the first try, and we make the mistake of trying to reignite them. This is a huge mistake you can make, as it can put yourself and others in harm’s way. Also, do not stand over them while lighting them. You can wear protective glasses to shield your eyes from debris. If you have pets, keep them inside. They may wander near an ignited firework.
Abide The Law
Do not indulge in illegal fireworks. There are regulations in place for your safety. You can learn more about firecracker safety rules from the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety.
Compliance Signs
A community firework show can be a way to bond with your neighbors, but it is also a loud affair. Compliance signs or safety yard signs can come in handy to gently remind everyone about the general safety rules and regulations they must consider while lighting fireworks. You can also install barriers to keep children from bursting crackers.
Keep Water Ready
Always light fireworks on a level and open area, preferably away from trees and other tall structures. Look out for anything flammable near the ground, and remove those before starting your firework show.
Water is the first thing you will need if there’s a fire, so keep a bucket of water and a hose nearby. If you want to take another precaution, consider having a fire extinguisher nearby as well! That way if you don’t have access to a water hose, you are still able to put out a fire if there is one.
Is Your Flag Safe?
The 4th of July is a special occasion for Americans and many houses will put out an American flag for the day. Keep in mind that the flag can become dangerous from a stray firework. Bottle rockets, often misdirectional, can fly and light the flag on fire. According to the U.S. Flag Code, no one is supposed to fasten a flag where it might get torn or damaged easily. Therefore, it is recommended not to burst crackers near the American Flag.
The neighborhood’s stands & displays can also catch fire from the tiniest spark. You can remove those and place them inside or maintain a substantial distance between them and the open area to avoid such a situation.
Be On Your Toes
It takes only a second for a mishap to happen. Therefore, be alert and conscious of yoursurroundings. Be cautious if you see any defective fireworks. Responsibility starts before the fireworks are lit and continues even after you are done with firing them off. Disposing of firecrackers is equally critical. Douse them with water and keep them away from any combustible substance.
Do not drink before you indulge in the fireworks. And if you plan to drink and enjoy the day, assign someone else to care for the firework show. In case of an accident, do not panic! Instead, keep your cool and think of ways to alleviate the pain while taking the patient to the hospital.
Conclusion
The 4th of July is a monumental occasion for Americans, and fireworks are an integral part of that celebration. By following these standard safety measures, you can safely celebrate holidays and other fun occasions with fireworks. Water should be ready to extinguish any fire that crops up and douse the burnt crackers. Follow the general guidelines and instructions given on the labels of the firecrackers.
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