Firework Safety Tips for Kids

It is estimated that in 2010, about 8,600 people were treated in emergency rooms due to firework injuries, and children under the age of 15 made up about 40% of those injured, so here are some tips to keep your kids safe during the 4th of July Holiday.

· Never allow children light the fireworks themselves, including sparklers
· Older children who decide to use fireworks should always be supervised by an adult
· Always read and follow all warnings and label instructions
· Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks
· Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and grass, and other things that may catch on fire
· Never try to relight “dud” fireworks that did not work the first time around
· Keep water handy (a garden hose and a bucket) in case of a malfunction or a fire
· Light only one firework at a time
· Never light fireworks in glass or metal containers
The person lighting the fireworks should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the fireworks
· Use long match sticks to light the fireworks, not lighters or cigarettes
Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water)