Fireworks are often used to mark special events and holidays. Consumers, however, often do not practice fireworks safety. The result is injury, fires, and other dangerous incidents.
FACTS
- NFPA is opposed to consumer use of fireworks. This includes sparklers and firecrackers. Even sparklers burn hot enough to cause third-degree burns
- Fireworks cause an average of almost 18,500 reported fires per year.
- Sparklers account for roughly one-quarter of emergency room fireworks injuries.
BE CAREFUL!
- Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
- Minimize alcohol consumption if you plan to light fireworks
- Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.
- Keep a safe distance away from active fireworks.
- Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
- Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
- If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don’t allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage
