Firework displays have become a part of tradition in many countries. Whenever there’s a major event or a major holiday, you’re almost always guaranteed to find a fireworks display during the week. The most notable displays of pyrotechnics in America are particularly grandiose on the fourth of July, the US Independence Day.
As fun and exhilarating as they are to watch, fireworks do pose a danger to other people, as well as the persons operating them. In fact, about 10, 000 fireworks-related injuries were treated in 2019. Not only do fireworks pose an immediate threat to your safety, but according to this Charlotte personal injury lawyer, neglecting safety protocols will land you in legal trouble. As we continue to welcome the new year ahead, here are some firework safety tips to keep in mind.
Buy Only Legal Fireworks
There are many types of fireworks that you can buy, but only those that are sanctioned by the government are okay to use. Legal fireworks are properly labelled and these labels display the manufacturer’s name, usage directions, and directions for storage. Legal fireworks are tested and are subjected to safety standards. Illegal fireworks are extremely dangerous and their use and purchase are enough to put you on the wrong side of the law. This also means that you shouldn’t even attempt to make your own fireworks.
Use Only Consumer-Grade Fireworks
Legal fireworks come in two variations. Display fireworks are for professional use only. These fireworks are heavily regulated and their use should always be supervised by a trained pyrotechnician. Consumer-grade fireworks are small fireworks that have weaker explosive power and generally do not require training to operate safely.
Operate Them Under Adult Supervision
Fireworks should also only be operated under adult supervision to make sure that everyone is safe. Many injuries are caused by the improper use of fireworks. Some things that adults need to keep in mind when supervising the use of fireworks are:
- Never stand over a firework when and after igniting it
- Never retrieve a dud firework right away (it might explode at any moment)
- Only retrieve duds after 20 minutes and soak them in a bucket of water before disposing them.
- Never pocket fireworks as the friction between the fuse and cloth may be enough to ignite the firework
- Never aim fireworks at another person
Keep Them Away From Pets
Pets such as cats and dogs are especially scared of fireworks because of the loud noises. Pets have more sensitive hearing than humans do and what may be tolerable noise for us may be painful for them. Minimize their exposure to noise by keeping them inside your house or even a room. This also prevents them from running out of the house and onto the streets where they’re more likely to meet an accident.
Fireworks are dangerous when handled irresponsibly but they can indeed be fun and exciting as long as we observe proper usage and maintain safety measures. Fireworks add a bit of flair to any event, but they can just as easily ruin a night, or even a life. Stay safe, dear reader!