Pool parties, grills, and fireworks were practically invented for the privilege of Independence Day celebrations. Playing with fire comes with great responsibility. Every year over 18,000 fires are started by fireworks, which includes structure fires, vehicle fires, and forest fires. The vast majority of firework-related injuries occur around July 4th. This blog serves as a reminder of precautions to take so that you and yours can celebrate safely.
Investigate the Firework Laws in Your Area
Due to dry weather many states, counties, or other municipalities may have enacted firework bans during Independence day. Many cities do not allow larger fireworks to be set off within the city limits. Be sure that all the fireworks you use are legal in your state and legal in the area where you set them off. Here is a list of the fireworks that are illegal in every US state, and the age at which you are allowed to purchase fireworks. If you are still unsure, check with local authorities. Having smaller fireworks or none at all can put a damper on Fourth of July celebrations, but better safe than sorry. Depending on the violation and region, penalties can range from $150 to $1,000.
Avoid Fire and Prepare to Put Fire Out
Driveways, gravel pits, open spaces, and space over water are the best places to light sparklers or fireworks at home. Do not light fireworks near dry brush, wood, fabric, or other flammable materials, and always keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby. Fireworks and sparklers should soak in water before being discarded to prevent a trash fire. If you are using larger fireworks, have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it properly. To maintain a swimming pool’s proper chemistry, we do not recommend that you use the pool to extinguish fireworks or sparklers.
Keep Fireworks Away from Children
Did you know that the earliest recommended age for children to be introduced to fireworks is seven years old? To include little ones in the celebration, it is tempting to give them sparklers and small fireworks. With just one turn of the head, little fingers can reach for the bright and beautiful ‘sparkle’, bringing a happy day to a terrible end. If you’re even slightly uncomfortable with that thought, you might offer glow sticks instead and enjoy a professional show. Sparklers and fireworks should always be kept out of reach of children, be heavily supervised by an adult when in use, and be set off within a safe distance from people.
For more information about firework safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association Website! Happy Independence Day!
