Safe Firework Use: Avoiding Injury

Setting off fireworks used to be considered child's play. Times have changed. Some or all consumer fireworks are banned in many states and local areas. In 2003, hospital emergency departments treated approximately 9,300 injuries related to fireworks, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Injuries to kids 15-and-under accounted for almost half of those injuries. For that same year, four deaths were attributed to aerial fireworks.

Does that mean fireworks can no longer be part of your celebrations? Not necessarily. If fireworks are legal in your area, you may set off fireworks at home if you follow the proper safety precautions.

Unsafe Firework Devices
Some fireworks are illegal in every state. For example, Blockbusters, M-80s, and M-100s are explosive devices that are highly regulated. Do not use anything that is not clearly labeled with the name of the manufacturer or the product. And do not attempt to make your own fireworks from a kit or otherwise.

Rules to Consider
Before you buy fireworks, make sure everyone knows and follows these rules:

• Buy fireworks from reliable dealers
• Store them in a cool, dry place
• Don't handle them roughly
• Never carry them in your pockets
• No throwing or pointing at people or animals
• Do not shoot them from glass or metal containers
• Use outdoors only
• Small children should never handle fireworks
• An adult needs to be present with older children

Rules for Shooting Off Fireworks at Home
Are you ready for the fun to begin? Take these steps:

• Designate an area away from the house, from flammable materials, and from those watching
• Don't let kids goof around in the display area
• Be prepared for trouble by having a bucket of water or a garden hose ready
• The shooter should wear eye protection and keep body parts away from the firework device
• Read and follow all directions
• Light one device at a time
• If a device fizzles, leave the dud alone for several minutes and then douse it with water
• Soak any used-up fireworks with water and then put them in the trash can

How to Enjoy Fireworks at a Public Display
Maybe you'd rather let trained firework professionals handle the show. If you do:

• Respect safety barriers so that you are at a safe distance away from the fireworks
• Leave your own fireworks at home
• You may want to bring earplugs

Stay Safe and Have Fun
If you choose to set-off fireworks at home, learn what makes a firework device appropriate for consumer use and how to set off the fireworks with the least amount of risk. However, if you really want to stay safe, go to a large public show. Their fireworks will light up the sky in a way private fireworks can't. Sit back and relax -- the show is about to begin.