With 4th of July right around the corner, there is a high probability that you will be around fireworks this weekend. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported an increase in injuries and deaths over the past few years around Independence Day.
Fireworks are not only a danger to people, but they also pose a threat to people’s homes. Houses are shown to be more damaged on that day than other days throughout the year. The National Fire Protection Association has stated that 40% home fires reported on July 4th are caused by fireworks.
Make sure you are in a wide, open area, away from trees, homes, and compact neighborhoods if you are lighting your own fireworks. Know where water sources can be found in case a fire does ensue. And don’t hesitate to call 911 if there is an emergency.
Here are a few more tips to keep in mind as you enter into this weekend:
- Make sure your fireworks are legal
- Leave the fireworks to the professionals
- Never allow young children to handle or be near fireworks
- Keep a filled water bucket nearby
- Ensure fireworks are fully extinguished if they do not go off
- Only light one firework at a time
- Wear protective eye-wear
- Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets
Click on the links below to learn more about firework safety:
http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/news-and-resources-fireworks-safety.aspx?var=hp5
http://www.fireworkssafety.org/safety-tips/
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks/
Stay safe and have a great 4th of July!
