Celebrate Summer Safely: Fireworks

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

Answer E! Have a Safe Fourth of July!

Summer is synonymous with barbeques, parades and fireworks displays; but along with all the the festivities are plenty of visits to emergency rooms-especially during July.

Each year, around 230 people are injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In addition to causing injury, fireworks are also responsible for thousands of house fires each year with millions of dollars in property damage. 

• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear. 
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire. 
• Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over as they may still be active.
• The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professional.
• Have a Happy Fourth of July.

Firework Facts:

• Fireworks cause an average of almost 20,000 reported fires per year.
• In 2013, sparklers caused 41% of fireworks injuries.
• On Independence Day in a typical year, fireworks account for two out of five reported fires, more than any other cause of fire. 

Tips and information provided by the National Fire Protection Assoc.