Fireworks Safety

Americans have had a love affair with fireworks for centuries. From grand municipal Fourth of July celebrations that light up the sky to the lighting of fireworks in the neighborhood, fireworks provide a spectacular show to turn any event into a memorable show.

As fun as they are, lighting off fireworks can be a hazardous activity that injures thousands of people every year. Even legally acquired, professionally manufactured fireworks can be unpredictable and cause injuries.

When mishandled, and without adequate safety procedures and equipment, fireworks accidents can cause burns, eye injuries, and more to both kids and adults.

Children Love Fireworks

 

There is nothing quite like the look of wonder and awe on the face of a child watching a fireworks display. Children are naturally curious and drawn to the spectacle that fireworks provide.

 

When it comes to shooting off commercially available fireworks, children should never be allowed to play with or shoot off fireworks. They are much too dangerous to be handled by kids.

Even seemingly harmless sparklers can reach temperatures hot enough to melt gold and should always be lit outdoors under the supervision of an adult. Sparklers can set a child’s hair and clothes on fire and cause severe burns or eye injuries.

 

Fireworks Safety Tips

Be careful. That is the best advice to give regarding the handling, care, and use of fireworks. These are dangerous devices that are designed to explode and will not always work as planned.

Before setting off the next round of fireworks, the following tips and suggestions can help prevent injuries and let everyone enjoy the show.

• Only buy and use fireworks that are legally permitted in your area. Not all states and communities allow fireworks, so check your local laws and regulations.
• Fireworks should always be safely stored in a cool, dry space, out of the reach or access from children.
• Never attempt to make your own fireworks without comprehensive training, supervision, and experience. Leave it to the professionals.
• Always keep a water supply with a hose nearby when using fireworks to snuff out any fires that may develop. Used or faulty fireworks should be doused with water immediately to prevent unplanned ignition or explosions.
• While there are professional indoor fireworks displays, commercially sold fireworks should never be set off indoors.
• Fireworks can be unreliable and shoot off in unpredictable directions, harming people and property. Make sure the immediate area is clear of people that could be harmed by an errant firework.
• Never point fireworks at other people, even as a joke. Accidents can happen at any time, and a serious injury that results from a fireworks mistake is not a laughing matter.
• Wearing safety glasses or other types of eye protection can help to prevent serious injury from errant sparks or debris when shooting off fireworks.
• Never light fireworks held in your hand or near any part of your body.
• Carrying fireworks in your pocket could create enough friction to set them off.
• Thousands of fires break out every year from fireworks. Always point fireworks away from buildings, brush, and other flammable materials, and keep a water supply handy.
• Only light one firework at a time and never attempt to relight a dud firework.
• Cautiously approach any pieces left from a firework with the assumption that they can still ignite and explode. Douse with water before attempting to pick up or dispose. All used fireworks should be soaked in water before being disposed of.

Fireworks and Pets

 

Animals’ ears can be ultra-sensitive to loud noises and have no idea what is happening when they hear fireworks go off. It is best to keep pets comfortably indoors during big, professional fireworks displays like on the Fourth of July. Even firing off personal fireworks can have your dog or cat scurrying for safety. Always be mindful of pets and animals in the area when shooting off fireworks.

What to Do When Fireworks Accidents Happen

 

Fireworks are designed to be ignited and cause an explosion. Accidents can happen to even the most conscientious and experienced fireworks aficionados. Thousands of Americans are injured in fireworks accidents every year. Adherence to safety precautions and procedures can help reduce the risk of injury and damage.

Anyone injured in a fireworks accident should seek emergency medical care immediately. Do not rub, touch, or apply water or ointment to eye injuries. Gently cover it and get to the ER.

People who have been burned by a firework should remove clothing around the area, run cool water over the burn, and seek immediate medical care.

Purchase Fireworks in Austin, Texas

 

If you have questions on fireworks safety or would like assistance selecting fireworks for your wedding or pyrotechnics for your live event, contact a member of our experienced team today!