Fireworks Safety Review

Updated 3/2017-- photos and all links (except to my own posts) removed as many no longer active. 

As the 4th of July approaches, I’ve begun to hear fireworks exploring in my neighborhood.  It’s been dry here, so in addition to the risk of injury to person there is a risk of setting the fields on fire.  I sure hope my neighbors are being responsible.

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.  A responsible adult should be in charge.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions. 
• 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.

You might also like:

• Fireworks Safety (June 28, 2008)
• Fireworks Safety  (July 2, 2009)
• Fireworks Safety (June 30, 2010)