Approximately 300 people a day go to the ER with firework-related injuries around July 4th. Here are the six most important fireworks safety tips you need to remember so you won't be one of them:
- Make sure they're legal where you are. Even if the state says certain fireworks are okay, counties and cities can have their own bans, because they're a fire risk.
- Never let young kids play with fireworks, or set them off. Even sparklers can cause serious burns. They get about as hot as a blow torch.
- Never aim fireworks at people. That one seems obvious until you've had a few beers. Also, don't THROW fireworks at people, or carry them around in your pocket. And keep an eye on teenagers who might try something dumb.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a firework while lighting it. Especially your face. Then as soon as it's lit, get to a safe distance.
- Always have a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of a fire. Or to douse fireworks that don't go off.
- Know how to deal with a dud. Never re-light a firework that doesn't go off. Wait for it to stop burning, douse it with a hose, then fully submerge it in a bucket of water. Soak small fireworks for 15 minutes, and larger ones for a few hours. Then before you toss them, tie them up in TWO plastic bags, so they won't dry out.