Each year, thousands of people are injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents. Even less powerful devices like small firecrackers and sparklers can cause significant injuries.
Sparklers can ignite clothing and cause severe burns. According to the National Safety Council, sparklers account for 25% of fireworks-related emergency room visits, with many of those occurring to children under 5 years of age.
Leaving fireworks to professionals is the safest bet, but if you plan to use them, follow these tips:
• Purchase only consumer-grade fireworks from a reliable licensed seller.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never stand over fireworks during and after ignition.
• Never allow children to handle fireworks—substitute alternatives like glows sticks.
• Ignite them away from people, houses, and flammable material.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to extinguish fireworks or in case of fire.
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
• Wear eye protection if igniting or positioned near fireworks.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Refrain from using fireworks during drought or dry weather conditions