FIREWORKS

- Main - Safety Tips Print This Page

MAIN (Return to Top)

It is preferable to leave fireworks to the professionals. Fireworks can be a spectacular addition to holidays and celebrations, but in the hands of amateurs, fireworks can turn the festivities into tragedy. Young people suffer the great majority of fireworks injuries, which typically harm the eyes, head, or hands. These injuries can result in blindness, permanent scarring, and amputation.

• Teach children at an early age that fireworks are explosive devices. They are not toys.
• Explain the danger of explosives and teach children to tell an adult if they find fireworks. Be sure they under stand it is too risky to pick up fireworks and bring them to an adult.
• As a substitute for sparklers and firecrackers, purchase glow-in-the-dark wands and non-explosive noisemakers.

SAFETY TIPS (Return to Top)

• Observe state and local laws. Check with your police or fire department to determine what fireworks/novelties can be legal in your area.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions with fireworks/novelties. All fireworks/novelties must carry a warning label that contains necessary safety precautions.
• Never build or experiment with home made fireworks/novelties.
• Be sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks/novelties.
• Only adults should handle fireworks/novelties. Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks/novelties.
• Never place your face or any part of your body over fireworks/novelties.
• Never try to re-ignite fireworks/novelties that have malfunctioned. Soak them with water and throw them away.
• Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose or a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Only light fireworks/novelties on a smooth flat surface away from houses, dry leaves and any other combustible materials.
• Never throw, point or shoot fireworks/novelties towards people, pets, buildings or vehicles.
• Do not use fireworks/novelties in wooded areas, especially if the weather has been dry.
• Never light fireworks/novelties in a container, especially glass or metal.
• Store fireworks/novelties in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions.
• Never light fireworks/novelties indoors, use only outdoors.
• Only light one firework/novelty at a time and never hold or get close to any lit fireworks.
• Watch what you wear. Loose clothing can catch fire and, therefore, should not be worn while handling fireworks.
• Never let children play with or handle sparklers. Sparklers are capable of reaching temperatures of 1800 degrees F. Sparklers should be immersed in sand once they appear out - they are still very hot and can cause a burn.

CHILDREN HAVE A LOT TO LOSE, PROTECT THE ONES YOU LOVE

It is simply too dangerous to use fireworks yourself or be around friends who use them. Instead, enjoy the thrill of pyrotechnics at a public display presented by trained professionals, where compliance with state-of-the-art fire codes is a safer way to enjoy the holidays.

The safety information enclosed was compiled from the best sources available to us. The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance and authors cannot assume any liability for its effectiveness in every emergency situation.