With things continually improving on the pandemic front, you probably feel more festive this Independence Day than you did last year. What does that mean? Food, family, friends and, perhaps, fireworks.
Fireworks are as integral to the 4th of July as a tree is for Christmas. However, given their literally explosive nature, they are definitely not the safest things to play with.
That doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t play with fireworks (as long as they’re legal, of course). You should just keep certain safety tips in mind to prevent any injuries or property damage.
The following tips will help to ensure you enjoy fireworks in a safe and responsible manner:
Attend Public Fireworks Displays
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to leave it to the professionals. Weather permitting, many communities around the country hold large-scale displays. Often, these displays are preceded by food, music, and other family-friendly attractions.
The size and drama of a professional fireworks show goes far beyond anything you could do in the middle of the street. And the risk of anything going wrong is extremely low.
Observe Local Ordinances
Many places around the country don’t allow for the private use of fireworks. This is often in regions prone to drought and wildfires, but restrictions can extend far beyond that. The presence or lack of fireworks stands should alert you to rules in your area, but you could always doublecheck with your city or county to verify.
Protect Pets
If you have a dog, cat, or other pet in the house, keep in mind their sensitivity to loud sounds. The sound and bright light of fireworks can be especially traumatic to pets.
Even if you aren’t the one using fireworks, there are likely to be some somewhere this time of year. For that, you could consider contacting your vet about a tranquilizer. You could quarantine your pet in the quietest room in the house until the festivities are over. Or, you may choose to board your pet elsewhere on days when you know loud noises are apt to occur.
Set-Up in Appropriate Settings
If your area does allow fireworks, make sure you set them off in an area that’s safe and convenient for your neighbors and others. They should only be set off in a wide, open space without trees or other flammable materials nearby.
In many neighborhoods, this often means the middle of the street. For that, you should be considerate and mindful of cars and other people nearby.
Ensure Adult Supervision at All Times
All fireworks, even handheld sparklers, burn very hot and fast. Because of that, young children should never be allowed to handle sparklers. For older children, be sure to keep a close eye on them if you choose to let them use sparklers. And only let a responsible adult be in charge of lighting any others.
Stay Back
In addition to choosing the right setting, you want to make sure that any people watching the fireworks do so from a safe distance. Keep onlookers several yards away.
For the person setting things off, keeping a safe distance is just as important. For the designated lighter:
- Never lean directly over a firework when lighting it; try off to the side with a long lighter.
- Don’t light a firework when holding it, only on the ground.
- Only light fireworks outside.
- Wear safety glasses to protect eyes from any errant sparks.
- Once lit, move away as quickly as possible.
- Be mindful of general fire safety. Have a hose or bucket of water nearby to stop any accidents, as well as to thoroughly douse everything once the show is over.
Don’t Mix Fireworks and Alcohol
After a day of barbecues, swimming, and indulging in your favorite brew, you may think wrapping things up with a private fireworks show is a great idea. Except, you should not be the one managing things.
Alcohol impairs and slows reflexes, and it can lead to bad decisions. That’s why a designated fireworks lighter should remain sober until after the last rocket is lit.
In summary, your safest option is to enjoy a public display. But if you do choose to set off your own, keeping the other above tips in mind will help to minimize accidents and maximize enjoyment.
For more safety tips and information, be sure to read the PeopleFinders Blog.
Photo credit: Jacob Lund – www.shutterstock.com
