Whether you’re celebrating New Years, the Fourth of July, or just a weekend with the family, the flash and dazzle of fireworks can help you make memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. But lighting fireworks carries risks for you and your loved ones. Particularly so these last couple of years, as firework-related accidents have been on the rise during the pandemic.
Celebrating the holidays is more important to us now than it’s ever been, but so is practicing strong fireworks safety. To make sure you can enjoy and safe and fun occasion every time, always remember to follow these key tips.
1. Supervise Children At All Times
Children should never be allowed to play with fireworks. Even small firecrackers and bottle rockets can prove dangerous.
Sparklers are often given to children because they’re thought of as harmless. But they often contain magnesium to increase the amount of light they produce. Magnesium is often used as a component in professional demolitions because when ignited it can burn at up to 2,000 degrees, hot enough to melt through some metals.
If you do let them use sparklers or other small fireworks, keep direct supervision over them at all times.
2. Practice Fire Safety
Even when used as intended, rockets and other aerial fireworks can prove unpredictable.
A major reason why they are banned in many localities not because of their direct risk to humans, but because of the risk of starting fires in dry climates. Avoid becoming a statistic by keeping buckets of water and/or a hose ready before you start lighting fireworks.
Further, always target fireworks away from buildings, brush, and wooded areas. Once used, gather up remains of spent fireworks and soak them in a bucket of water. Never let children handle used fireworks or duds; they can reignite and explode at any time.
3. Be Considerate Of Your Animals
Humans aren’t the only ones that you need to think about when using fireworks.
Many animals have senses of hearing and smell magnitudes more sensitive than humans. So while a fireworks display may be good fun for us, it can be distressing for our four-legged friends. Keep all pets indoors to reduce the risk of them running off or getting injured by debris.
4. Buy From Reputable Vendors
Before you consider putting on a fireworks display, be sure to familiarize yourself with what fireworks, if any, are legal in your area. And with knowledge in mind, only buy fireworks from trusted vendors like this company.
Counterfit or illegal fireworks are often prepared by amateurs who can take a lenient approach to safety. As such, they may be overpacked or ill-constructed, making them a potential danger to you and anyone around you. That’s why it’s crucial that you insist on name brands, still in their factory packaging and with the manufacturer’s instructions included.
Once purchased, store them in a cool, dry place. And never try to modify fireworks or make your own.
Fireworks Safety Is Integral To A Happy Celebration
Whatever the occasion, fireworks can make your celebration a night to remember. But you want to make sure that you only remember it for the right reasons. Practicing these fireworks safety guidelines can help you to enjoy yourselves while reducing the risks of a tragic mishap.
And don’t forget, have fun! For more ways that you can enjoy safe, happy times with your loved ones, be sure to keep up with our latest lifestyle tips and guides.
