Fireworks are synonymous with our celebration of Independence Day. Yet, the thrill of fireworks can also
bring pain. 200 people on average go the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the
month around the July 4th holiday.
Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. You can help us prevent
fireworks-related injuries and deaths.
Follow these safety tips when using fireworks:
- Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don’t realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.
- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
- Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
- Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If it is not marked with the contents, directions and a warning label, do not light it.
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
Additional safety information can be found on Salisbury Fire Department’s website at salisburyfd.com.
The Salisbury Fire Department wishes everyone a fire safe July.
