Fireworks Safety

Watching a fireworks show is a truly magical experience at any age, whether you are at a local park or club, or making your own show in the backyard. If you are going to light fireworks on your own, there are special precautions you must take to keep your family safe as you celebrate.

Read and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and warnings.
Do not try to make your own fireworks; use only those that are commercially manufactured.
Only light fireworks outside in an open space.
Light one firework at a time away from others.
Obey local ordinances regarding private fireworks usage.
Have a bucket of water handy in case of emergencies.
If a firework does not go off, do not try to relight it. Instead, wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
Never light a firework in a glass or metal container.
Do not drink alcohol while lighting fireworks—they can pose burning hazards if you are not careful.

Sparkler fireworks are especially fun for children. Once children are old enough, allow them to hold a sparkler under your guidance. Those who are younger than 12 years old should not hold sparklers and should remain spectators only. Even mild fireworks such as sparklers can get hot enough to burn through clothing. To prevent burn injuries, exercise extreme caution when lighting and holding fireworks, and monitor your children closely while celebrating.

Protection for Your Pets

Like thunderstorms or the vacuum cleaner, fireworks may frighten your family pets and cause them to shake, bark, howl, cry or hide as a result of the loud noises. In addition, some pets may even refuse to eat, drool excessively or lose control of their bladder or bowels.

To protect your pets from becoming stressed as a result of loud noises from fireworks:

Keep pets indoors away from loud noises in a place that is comfortable to them, such as a crate or favorite room in the home.
Hide fireworks and matches from pets so they do not chew or eat these items.
Allow pets to go to the bathroom before beginning your fireworks show to prevent accidents.

Get more fireworks safety information at: http://fireworkssafety.org/?p=329.