It is the time of year again when we get stars in our eyes because we know it is our chance to set off fireworks. Firework safety is never more important than this time of the year when untold numbers of these beauties are ignited to dazzle us. US Consumer Product Safety Commission reports 200 injuries a day surrounding the month of July alone. Not only do injuries occur but deaths have resulted as well from improper use of fireworks. Hands and eyes appear to be the greatest reported injuries. There are some important steps that you can take to protect yourself and others around you when setting off fireworks.

Firework safety cannot be stressed enough for all ages. Injuries from fireworks occur at all ages, with the highest concentration in the US between ages 12 – 18. The next highest injury rate falls in males over the age of thirty according to government findings. It seems we truly never grow out of the thrill of seeing, hearing and igniting fireworks. That is why firework safety should be strictly observed. Nobody wants to lose of any part of their body.

Firework safety should be observed at home as well as away from home when attending those awesome fireworks shows. How many times have you gone to fireworks displays and heard others shooting off fireworks around everyone? Fireworks are wonderful and beautiful but to keep them that way they should be ignited with caution and following some basic rules from the US Product Safety Commission to prevent injuries.

Firework Safety Guidelines

  • Young children should not be allowed to set off or play with fireworks.
  • Never buy fireworks wrapped in plain brown paper. These are usually for professional fireworks people.
  • All fireworks activities must be supervised by an adult.
  • Sparklers cause many small children injuries because they burn at approximately 2,000 degrees.
  • Don’t position yourself over the fireworks when lighting it. Once lit back up quickly to a safe distance.
  • Don’t ever re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. It is better to douse these with water.
  • Never throw any fireworks at another person.
  • Keep water handy in case of fire.
  • Light fireworks one at a time, and never bundle them together to attempt to make larger explosions.
  • Don’t use metal or glass bottle to shoot off fireworks.
  • After finishing your fireworks be sure to use plenty of water on the spent ones and the area to prevent fires.

Firework safety is important this time of the year. The Hoffman Agency LLC wishes everyone a safe and fun July 4th holiday!