Fireworks Safety Month

June is Fireworks Safety Month! 

June is the perfect month to spread awareness of the dangerous of fireworks. With the Fourth of July nearby, it’s important to know the potential risks and the precautions one should take. The cause is sponsored by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and it is observed all the way till early July. The National Safety Council advices to avoid consumer fireworks and only attend public displays conducted by professionals. In the most recent study conducted in 2017, it showed that 13,000 injuries and 8 deaths were caused by fireworks, and even the simplest, as the sparklers caused 1,200 injuries. Fireworks not only cause burn and eye injuries, but they’re the cause of thousands of structure and vehicles fires, and deaths. The best thing to do is to be an advocate for the safe use of fireworks in your community and let the professionals handle the work, to avoid the consequences of malfunctioning and careless use. Be safe this summer and enjoy the local fireworks show at a safe distance!

Rules to follow:

• Obey the laws of your state.

• Never handle fireworks under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.

• Never ignite fireworks indoors.

• Never ignite them inside a container.

• Remain a significant distance away from the fireworks.

• Never allow children to handle fireworks, including sparkles (they burn at 2,000 degrees).

• Minors should always be supervised by adults.  

• Do not try to re-light malfunctioning fireworks.

• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of having to extinguish fire or malfunctioning fireworks.

• Soak fireworks in water before discarding them.

• Never throw fireworks at someone.