Today on July 4th in the United States we celebrate Independence Day. One thing that comes to the mind of almost every American when you think of the Fourth of July is…FIREWORKS! Just about every kid has watched some sort of fireworks display whether it be a private display in the backyard, or a public display at the local park (like I did), over the river, or from the rooftops of the big buildings downtown. It is an American tradition and a family tradition!
Fireworks Are For The Entire Family
One of the greatest things about a fireworks display is that the entire family enjoys it. Something about loud sounds, bright lights, and explosions are fun for everyone. The babies, and sometimes the big kids, cuddle up with a parent or grandparent. The younger kids jump up and down, clap, and yell at the loud booms. The older kids, and adults “ooh” and “aah” at the colorful displays. It is definitely fun for the entire family.
What Makes The BEST Fireworks Displays
But the best fireworks displays are the ones that take place without any injuries or damaged property. With three young kids, and a wife who loves to play with fire, I am the “voice of fireworks safety” in our family. Below, I’ve compiled 12 Fireworks Safety Tips For Your Independence Day Celebration. So if you are that “voice” in your house, then this list is for you. If you are the fire starter of the family, then give this list to the “voice of fireworks safety” person in your family. 🙂
Fireworks Safety Tips
- Use fireworks outdoors only (stating the obvious is sometimes necessary).
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Avoid buying fireworks packages in brown paper (this is a sign they are for professional displays).
- Always have a bucket of water and a hose nearby.
- Avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket (the friction could set them off).
- Don’t allow kids to pick up pieces of fireworks after an event (they may still be ignited and can explode).
- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them away.
- Never shoot fireworks off in metal or glass containers.
- Never relight a “dud”. Wait 20 minutes and soak in water.
- Never try to make your own fireworks.
- Never point fireworks at another person or at a home.
- Don’t mix alcohol and fireworks. Have a “designated shooter.”
5 Bonus Facts about Fireworks Injuries
- Thousands of people, mostly children and teens, are injured each year on the Fourth of July while using consumer fireworks.
- The age with the highest risk for injury is children ages 5-14.
- More than 80% of emergency room fireworks injuries involve fireworks consumers are permitted to use.
- The tip of a sparkler burns at more than 1,200° Fahrenheit, which is more than the temperature needed to boil water, bake a cake, burn wood, or melt glass.
- Most fireworks injuries, 17% of them, come from sparklers.
Be safe, enjoy the fireworks, and have a HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
[reminder]What is the greatest memory you have about fireworks and the Fourth of July?[/reminder]