New Laws & Fireworks Safety
Each July 4th, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death. Recently, due to changes in state laws, consumers should be even more careful with fireworks and their usage this summer.
Tips to Stay Safe
- Read Safety Warnings. Read the safety labels on the fireworks or their packaging. Follow all instructions.
- Ensure Adult Supervision. Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older children should have adult supervision. The law prohibits the sale of fireworks to individuals under the age of 18.
- Do Not Reignite Firework Duds. If a firework fails to ignite or explode, do not attempt to relight it. Leave it alone for 20 minutes and then soak it in water.
- Do Not Drink And Use Fireworks. Never consume alcohol before and while discharging fireworks. It’s unsafe, and the law prohibits the use of fireworks while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any controlled substance.
- Use Common Sense, Do Not Be Reckless. Reckless use of fireworks is not worth the potential viral video. Over 11,000 people were treated for firework-related injuries in U.s. emergency departments in 2016, including many who lost fingers. (CPSC).
- Stay Clear Of Structures And Flammable Materials. The law prohibits the discharge of fireworks within 150 ft of an occupied structure or within a building or motor vehicle. Find an area clear of structures, overhead obstacles, and flammable material.
- Set And Aim The Fireworks Appropriately. Do not aim fireworks sideways at buildings, or at motor vehicles. Never discharge fireworks from within your pocket or on your body. Use only the provided launch structure.
- Discharge One Firework At A Time. Do not attempt to light more than one firework at a time. Discharge just one firework at a time, then quickly move a safe distance away.
- Keep Supplies On Hand. Operators and onlookers should wear safety glasses when discharging fireworks. Also keep water (from a hose, bucket, etc.) nearby in case of a fire.
- Keep Pets Safe. Keep pets away from fireworks. Never allow pets to roam freely when using fireworks. Keep pets indoors in a safe, secure room.
- Properly Dispose Of Used and Unused Fireworks. Soak any used or unused fireworks in water and then discard them into a metal trash can; place the trash can several feet from any structures.
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