Each July 4th, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. We're talking devastating burns, eye injuries, loss of fingers and hands - even death. So, follow these simple rules and keep it safe and fun for everyone:
- Always have an adult in charge of lighting fireworks.
- Never give fireworks to small children. Even sparklers can burn people.
- The person lighting the fireworks should not be drinking alcohol.
- Always read the directions on a firework's label.
- Set up your fireworks on a steady, flat surface.
- Make sure there are no flammable materials near the "launch site."
- Spectators should be 20 feet away from a fountain-style display, and 40 feet away from an aerial fireworks display.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy.
- Light only one firework at a time.
- Don't try to relight "dud" fireworks.
- Never throw or point a firework at a person.
- Do not shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers.
- Properly dispose of used fireworks by dousing them in water. Let them sit for 10 or 15 minutes to make sure flames are out.
