| Every year about this time, we enter into fireworks season. This year, with the 250th anniversary of our independence, we again expect to experience a rash of fires and injuries associated with the use of fireworks. At the risk of sounding like the Grinch that stole the 4th of July, we'd naturally like you to avoid using fireworks around your house and family and leave the booming to the pros.
However, we know that many of you will anyway and for those of you who choose to do so, here are some recommendations from our friends at the US Fire Administration, to keep it as safe as possible:
• Keep Body Parts Away from Lit Fireworks: Never place any part of your body over a firework when lighting it.
• Be Mindful of Pets and Wildfire Risk: Fireworks can frighten pets, causing them to run away or become injured. Fireworks can also start wildfires—use extreme caution, especially in dry conditions.
• Supervise Children: Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers can reach temperatures over 2,000°F and cause serious burns. Consider safer alternatives like glowsticks, popping streamers, or confetti.
• Choose a Safe Location: Use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from homes, vehicles, dry grass, trees, and other flammable materials.
• Dispose of Fireworks Properly: Soak used fireworks in water and place them in a metal trash can, away from buildings and anything that can burn.
• Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Monitor for Fire Hazards: Watch for smoldering debris or embers after fireworks have been extinguished, as they can reignite and cause fires.
• Never Relight Malfunctioning Fireworks: Do not pick up or try to relight fireworks that haven’t ignited fully—they can go off unexpectedly and cause injury.
• Check Local Laws: Know your local fireworks regulations. If your area is experiencing drought conditions, do not use fireworks or sparklers, as they can easily start fires.
• Be Prepared: Keep a bucket of water, garden hose, or fire extinguisher nearby in case of fire or malfunction.
• Protect Your Hearing: Fireworks can exceed 150 decibels and cause immediate hearing damage. Take steps to protect your ears.
• Notify Neighbors: Let neighbors—especially those with young children, elderly family members, or pets—know before using fireworks.
Please be careful out there so that if we visit your home this year, it's to get a burger off the grill. |
