Safe Fireworks

To make your home absolutely safe from a Fourth of July tragedy, do not buy any fireworks – illegal or legal – for yourself or your family to set off. If you are having family or guests over, spread the word now that you do not want fireworks in your home this year.

That is how to have the safest Fourth of July you can this year.  Of course, some of you will go to fireworks displays so here are some ways you can stay safe at private and public fireworks displays.

One, make sure the display is being done by professionals. There are professional fireworks technicians who plan displays to prevent injury. Of course, these professionals can make mistakes but due to their training, the mistakes these pros make are less likely to seriously injure anyone.

Two, if a display is being put on by members of some organization but the group has not hired fireworks professionals to set up and operate the display, go to a public display operated by professionals instead. Private displays by non professionals are accidents waiting to happen.

And, three, obey the professionals at a fireworks display. If an area is roped or taped off, do not try to view the fireworks from that area just because there is no one else in the area to block your view. The restricted area could be where the fireworks technicians plan for the fiery debris of the fireworks display to land. It could also be a safety area in case things go wrong. No matter why the area is restricted, being in it could get you badly burnt or even killed.

Others of you will buy fireworks – illegal or legal – so here are some safety tips for you. llegal fireworks are illegal for a good reason – they kill or maim users. That is why you should know the difference between illegal and legal fireworks. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are not fireworks, they are federally banned explosives.

They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name and instructions for proper use.

Fireworks are not toys. Fireworks complying with strict regulations enacted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in 1976 function primarily by burning to produce motion and visible or audible effects. They are burning at approximately the same temperature as a household match and can cause burn injuries and ignite clothing if used improperly. So, NEVER give fireworks to young children. Close, adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory. Even sparklers can be unsafe if used improperly.

Also, do not allow drug impaired or drunk adults to use any fireworks. Adults whose mental functions are impaired are even less intelligent than many younger children so they too can be severely injured when using fireworks or can injure others.

And, do NOT make your own fireworks. Homemade fireworks are deadly. Never attempt to make your own devices and do not purchase or use any kits that are advertised for making fireworks. Mixing and loading chemical powders is very dangerous and can kill or seriously injure you. Leave the making of fireworks to the experts.