Parades, barbeques, and a night sky lit up by the colorful glow of fireworks, are all part of celebrating our nation’s independence on the Fourth of July. Your family’s opportunity to “oooo” and “ahhh” at the magic that is a firework show are just around the corner. Many of us will go to a community event to watch and celebrate our freedom with fireworks displays while others will stay close to home celebrating in their own way. Either way you celebrate our nation’s independence have fun and enjoy, but always be safe and keep a close eye on your children. If a personal fireworks show is in your plans for the Fourth of July, please celebrate safely by practicing the “Three Be’s”.
Be Prepared
Before you light fireworks:
- Keep a bucket of water nearby to place all used fireworks.
- Have a water hose or fire extinguisher nearby to put out stray sparks.
- Clear a level area away from things that can burn.
- Be sure everyone knows how to call 911, your address/location, and basic first aid.
- Teach your children to stop, drop, cover their face, and roll if their clothes catch fire.
Be Safe
When lighting fireworks:
- Have a designated adult light all fireworks.
- Do not allow young children to light fireworks, only adults should light fireworks.
- Use eye protection, wear safety glasses or goggles.
- Light one at a time, move away quickly and keep a safe distance until the display has finished.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Use only outdoors, away from anything that can burn.
- To prevent injuries never point or throw fireworks at another person and never hold fireworks in your hand.
Be Responsible
After you finish:
- Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash.
- Duds can be dangerous; if a device does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least fifteen to twenty minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.
Respect fireworks and sparklers as the great American tradition they are, but also respect the fact that they must be used with caution. Remember, a simple sparkler can reach 1,800° Fahrenheit, which is as hot as a blow torch! Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions at 239-267-7525 and most importantly, have a wonderful and safe Fourth of July.
