Fireworks and the 4th of July go hand-in-hand. While fireworks are a fun and exciting activity to partake in, setting off your own fireworks comes with obvious dangers. The National Council on Firework Safety encourages consumers to follow the following safety tips before engaging in your own firework celebrations this Fourth of July:
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
- A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
- Do not hold a fireworks item in your hand.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never relight a “dud” firework. If a firework does not ignite, wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water before you discard it.
- After purchasing fireworks, always store them in a cool, dry place.
- When using fireworks always have a connected hose, bucket of water, or other water source nearby.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trashcan away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
- Ensure all pets and animals are away from fireworks noise.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year, with more than half those fires caused by fireworks. Added to fires are injuries.
House fires can start due to storing firework packages in unsafe areas of your home. When storing fireworks at home, make sure they are kept away from any sources of heat and make sure they are kept dry. Also, make sure to store them in their original packaging and do not store them near or with any other flammable materials. Lastly, if there is a possibility of children or animals having access to the fireworks, keep them store up high or in a lockable area.
The safest option to storing fireworks is contacting your firework supplier and having them store your display until you are ready to use them. Many retailers are happy to do this for you and it is by far the safest option.
From all of us at Doyle Security, have a happy and safe 4th of July!
