Many families enjoy the 4th of July holiday with firework displays at their own home. While they may be beautiful, fun and exciting, they can also be dangerous, causing serious burns and injuries if handled incorrectly.
New West Physicians would like to remind those setting off fireworks over the holiday to take the necessary steps and precautions to keep themselves and others safe.
Recommended Safety Tips
· 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.
· Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
· Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
· Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose 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 trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
· FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
· Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.
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