By JOE MELILLO
WISH-TV | wishtv.com
Fourth of July celebrations start this weekend and safety officials want you to be extra careful this year. There a few basics things to remember.
One of the most important things is to have an adult light the firework for a child. Second, make sure to have a bucket of water nearby at all times so you can put out a fire or use it to make sure the firework is completely out. Many of the fireworks bought at a store look like toys – a sword, a car, each with a lot of colors and cartoons – but parents need to stay aware these are not toys.
Sparklers burn at somewhere around 2,000 degrees and can be the most dangerous. Nearly one-third of injuries come from sparklers.
Another issue that comes up every year is with 911 calls. Often people think fireworks are gunshots, but Sergeant John Perrine from the Indiana State Police says to use common sense if you hear loud bangs.
Recommended Safety Tips
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
- A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
- Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
- FAA regulations prohibit the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
- Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.
And let’s not forget the safety of pets:
- Don’t bring your pets to a fireworks display, even a small one.
- If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound.
- Make sure your pet has an identification tag, in case it runs off during a fireworks display.
- Never shoot fireworks of any kind (consumer fireworks, sparklers, fountains, etc.) near pets.