fireworksThis month we’ve published a number of tips as part of National Safety Month. We’ve made a checklist for kids to have a healthy and safe summer break and listed tips for water and traffic safety. As we approach the Fourth of July holiday weekend, it’s important to remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and practice water and vehicle safety, as well as to review tips to stay safe around fireworks.

The following list of fireworks safety tips was originally posted by SafeKids.org:

Leave Fireworks to the Professionals

  • The best way to protect your family is to not use any fireworks at home. Instead, attend public fireworks displays and leave the lighting to the professionals.
  • If you plan to use fireworks, make sure they are legal in your area.

Be Extra Careful With Sparklers

  • Little arms are too short to hold sparklers, which can heat up to 1,200 degrees. How about this? Let your young children use glow sticks instead. They can be just as fun but they don’t burn at a temperature hot enough to melt glass.
  • Closely supervise children around fireworks at all times.

Take Necessary Precautions

  • Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
  • Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
  • Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances.

Be Prepared for an Accident or Injury

  • Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.
  • Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.
  • If a child is injured by fireworks, immediately go to a doctor or hospital. If an eye injury occurs, don’t allow your child to touch or rub it, as this may cause even more damage.

By taking the right precautions when celebrating with fireworks, your holiday weekend will be filled with safe, family fun!