Fireworks Safety for New Years
Most people think about fireworks only during the Fourth of July. More and more, however, people are using them to ring in the New Year. If you’re planning on using fireworks, staying safe this New Year’s Eve is something to consider. Here are some ideas on firework safety.
Before you go out and spend a bunch of money on fireworks to ring in the New Year, check with your city’s ordinances. Fireworks may not be legal for individuals to use or there may be specific permits required in order to shoot them off. Besides being safe, you also want your fireworks to be legal.
Rather than using fireworks at home, why not find a public display of fireworks for the night. This is the best way to enjoy them and not have to be concerned about you or your family’s safety. If your area doesn’t have public fireworks, watch them on television.
Every year people are burned or receive eye injuries from the misuse of fireworks. Obviously you don’t want to become a fireworks injury statistic, so be very careful if you choose to use them.
Read and follow the directions carefully. You may have used fireworks in the past, but it is always best to read the instructions each time you use them. The instructions will explain the safest use and handling of the fireworks.
Set up a safe zone for people to watch from. This may mean you have spectators sit in the back yard while you light the fireworks from the driveway or street. By keeping people at a safe distance they will be less likely to get an injury.
Choose a flat, smooth surface from which to light the fireworks. The area will also need to be free of dry leaves or flammable materials. You’ll also want to fire them away from your home to avoid possible damage.
Set up the fireworks as directed on the packaging. Place the unused fireworks in a box with a lid and close it. This will keep any stray sparks from igniting the remaining fireworks. Only after the unused fireworks are secured should you light them.
Keep a garden hose or bucket of water available at all times. This will enable you to put out any fires which might start.
Young children may want to help with the fireworks but children and fireworks aren’t a good combination. In fact, even though many people give their children sparklers, even those aren’t suitable for children. They heat up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit which can burn little ones.
Fireworks displays are awesome to watch. They are also dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. When it comes to fireworks, staying safe this New Year’s isn’t really difficult. Leave the fireworks to the professionals and you can ensure you and your family’s safety.
