Firework Safety Tips for the 4th of July
As the country celebrates Independence Day, it is important for parents to take special steps to protect children from dangerous fireworks. If not handled properly, fireworks can cause burns and eye injuries. The best way to protect your family is to not use any fireworks at home.
Setting off fireworks yourself is illegal in much of East Tennessee. Check your local laws before you decide to buy or use fireworks.
East Tennessee Children's Hospital Injury Prevention Coordinator Susan Cook talks about safety with fireworks in this video:
If fireworks are legal where you live and you plan to use them, take the following precautions:
- Do not let your children touch or play with fireworks. Even smaller fireworks like sparklers, firecrackers and rockets are too dangerous for children and can cause severe burns.
- Buy only legal fireworks and store them in a cool, dry place. Illegal fireworks do not meet modern standards and are very dangerous.
- Always use fireworks outside. Keep a hose and bucket of water nearby in case of accidents.
- Steer clear of others. Fireworks can backfire or shoot in the wrong direction. Never point a firework at someone, even as a joke.
- Point fireworks away from homes. Fireworks cause more than 50,000 fires each year and can easily ignite brush leaves and other flammable substances.
- Do not allow your children to pick up fireworks after your celebration. They may explode at any time.
- Keep your pets indoors during Independence Day celebrations. They may be frightened or stressed by the noise and explosions and run away or be injured.
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash.