With our nation’s 249th birthday tomorrow, we can expect the day (and night) to be full of booms, bangs, snaps, crackles, and pops – if they haven’t already started.
Yes, fireworks are fun. But they’re also controlled explosions, which makes them dangerous, especially for children.
So, since we all want to keep children safe and intact, here are three simple fireworks safety suggestions, courtesy Safe Kids Worldwide:
- If possible, attend public firework displays. Leave lighting fireworks to the professionals.
- Give children glowsticks instead of sparklers. Sparklers can heat up to more than 1,200 degrees and are dangerous for young children.
- Keep fireworks away from children. Make sure children stay a safe distance away from a lit firework.
Some other tips …
- Keep bystanders at a safe distance from exploding fireworks
- Read all instructions carefully.
- Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies.
- If a firework fails to ignite, do not attempt to re-light it. Drop it in water, then throw it away.
The truth is fireworks can burn and seriously injure little fingers, eyes, and ears. That’s why responsible adults should carefully supervise any home fireworks display. The Consumer
Product Safety Commission says children 10 to 14 years have the highest estimated rate of emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries, and about 3,000 kids end up in the emergency room each year.
There’s nothing wrong with a celebratory family-friendly weekend, but let’s ensure it stays fun for everyone by practicing firework safety.
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