It’s July; time for BBQs, ice cream, family vacations, and fireworks. According to the Consumer Product Satefy Commission, there were about 9,600 fireworks related injuries during the Fourth of July holiday in 2011. Help your family and friends avoid the potential dangers of fireworks by following these common sense guidelines:
- Always purchase fireworks from a reliable source.
- Use fireworks as directed on consumer product safety label; never alter products.
- Observe local laws and use good common sense.
- Have a designated shooter to organize and shoot your family show.
- A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities.
- Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
- NEVER carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.
- Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor trash can.
- Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.
For more information on fireworks safety and to view a safety video, please visit http://fireworkssafety.org/.
Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities 