Safety tips for fireworks

For Americans, Fourth of July celebrations usually signify summer fun, vacations and the gathering of family and friends, but Independence Day can also bring tragedy. In a typical year, more U.S. fires are reported on July 4 than on any other day and fireworks account for half of those fires. Sparklers, firecrackers and rockets are the leading contributors to these injuries.

Did You Know?

• The tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees - this is hot enough to cause third degree burns.

• More than 90 percent of fireworks injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms involve fireworks that federal regulations permit consumers to use.

Because most fireworks injuries are preventable, everyone can enjoy a safe and happy holiday by following a few fireworks safety tips.

• Fireworks type: Among the various types of fireworks, some of which are sold legally in some states, bottle rockets can fly into peoples' faces and cause eye injuries; sparklers can ignite clothing (sparklers burn at more than 1,000°F) and firecrackers can injure the hands or face if they explode at close range.

• Being too close: Injuries may result from being too close to fireworks when they explode; for example, when someone leans over to look more closely at a firework that has been ignited, or when a misguided bottle rocket hits a nearby person.

• Lack of physical coordination: Younger children often lack the physical coordination to handle fireworks safely.

• Curiosity: Children are often excited and curious around fireworks, which can increase their chances of being injured (for example, when they re-examine a firecracker dud that initially fails to ignite).

• Experimentation: Homemade fireworks (for example, ones made of the powder from several firecrackers) can lead to dangerous and unpredictable explosions.

• The best way to protect your family is not to use any fireworks at home - period. Attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.

• Children should never play with fireworks. Sparklers can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit (982° Celsius) - hot enough to melt gold.

• Steer clear of others - fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction. Never throw or point fireworks at someone, even in jest.

• Don't allow children to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event. Some may still be ignited and can explode at any time.

• Think about pets. Animals have sensitive ears and can be extremely frightened or stressed on the Fourth of July. Keep pets indoors to reduce the risk that they'll run loose or get injured.

http://www.cibolabeacon.com/articles/2009/06/25/news/doc4a43e713f175c539892777.txt