What’s the best part about the month of July? Cookouts? Going to the beach, lake or pool? No! It’s the FIREWORKS! Fireworks are fun when set off properly, but can be very dangerous if misused. Every year, 8,000 people are injured while using or observing fireworks. In 2003, there were 9,300 firework related injuries, and 6 deaths linked to fireworks. In 2004, 40% of fireworks injuries happened to children under the age of 15, and 23% of fireworks injuries happen to children under the age of 5. About 50% of sparkler injuries happen to children under the age of 5. Sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit; hot enough to melt gold. Some general rules to keep in mind this summer season: Make sure fireworks are legal for use in your community. • Always read and follow label directions • Always have an adult present • Only buy from reliable fireworks sellers • Only ignite fireworks outdoors • Be sure to have a bucket of water ready • Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks • Light only one at a time • Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks • Never give fireworks to small children • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place • Dispose of fireworks properly • Never throw fireworks at another person • Never carry fireworks in your pocket • Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers • Do not give children sparklers due to their ability to reach very high temperatures and the ease of setting a piece of clothing on fire • Light fireworks in a clear away, away from houses, dry leaves or grass, and flammable materials • Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas • Observe local laws • Wear eye protection • Do not carry fireworks in your pocket • Do not allow your child to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event • Soak fireworks in a bucket before throwing them in a trash can • Never relight a dud firework If your child is injured by a firework: Immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, do not allow your child to touch or rub the eye because it may cause more damage. Do not flush the eye with water or ointment. Immediately seek medical attention. If your child is burned, remove clothing from the burned area and run cool water over the burn. Do not use cold water or ice. http://www.americanpyro.com/Safety%20Info/safety.html http://www.pyrouniverse.com/stats.htm http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/welcome/safety/fireworks_safety.html http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/fireworks.html
