Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Fireworks Safety

 Updated 3/2017 -- photos and all links (except to my own posts) removed as many no longer active.

Time for a reminder of safe firework use.  This Daily News article by Lauren Johnston -- Doctors replace woman's missing thumb with big toe transplant – shows and tells you why.
A Long Island woman's big toe will adapt to function as a thumb after doctors performed a rare transplant operation to replace the vital missing digit.
Shannon Elliott, 25, lost the thumb and two fingers from her left hand in November when a firework exploded in her palm. …….

I hope you will all have a safe and happy July 4th.  Be safe and stay out of the ER.
Please use the following tips:
  • Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
  • Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
  • Fireworks should be unpacked from any paper packing out-of-doors and away from any open flames.
  • Be sure other people are out-of-range before lighting fireworks. Small children should be kept a safe distance from the fireworks; older children that use fireworks need to be carefully supervised.
  • Do not smoke when handling any type of "live" firecracker, rocket, or aerial display.
  • Keep all fireworks away from any flammable liquids, dry grassy areas, or open bonfires.
  • Keep a bucket of water or working garden hose nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.
  • Take note of any sudden wind change that could cause sparks or debris to fall on a car, house, or person.
  • Never attempt to pick up and relight a "fizzled" firework device that has failed to light or "go off"
  • Do not use any aluminum or metal soda/beer can or glass bottle to stage or hold fireworks before lighting.
  • Do not use any tightly closed container for these lighted devices to add to the exploding effect or to increase noise.
  • Never attempt to make your own exploding device from raw gunpowder or similar flammable substance. The results are too unpredictable.
  • Never use mail-order fireworks kits. These do-it-yourself kits are simply unsafe.
If you need more information on the injuries that can occur, check out these sites:
Fireworks Related Injuries by the CDC
Prevent Blindness America

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