Capping Off the 4th of July with Fireworks?

Last year there were approximately 11,000 fireworks related injuries reported and approximately 17,800 fires caused by consumer firework activities. Here is some information and tips for a safe 4th of July celebration.

“And the Rocket's Red Glare, the Bombs Bursting in Air”

Just Not in Your Driveway Thank You!

It’s safe to say if it flies, it isn’t legal to use. Fireworks that explode, become airborne or move on the ground in an uncontrolled manner are illegal in California. A few examples of illegal fireworks are bottle rockets, sky rockets, aerial shells, roman candles and firecrackers.

“You Light it and We’ll Write It”

The drought and recent fires are making safety efforts more critical than ever this year. California is cracking down on the use of illegal fireworks. The “You Light it We’ll Write It’ campaign is underway letting consumers know that the use of illegal fireworks will result in a ticket.

“Safe and Sane”

The only fireworks judged legal for consumers in California are those that carry the official State Fire Marshal seal, are permitted by locality and are classified by the State Fire Marshal as "safe and sane”.  Generally, safe and sane fireworks are handheld or ground-based devices.

“All That Sparkles”

Remember running around the backyard with your glowing sparkler as a child? Most of us do. But who knew that a sparkler burns at 1200°? To put that into perspective glass melts at 900°, wood burns at 575°, and a cake bakes at 350°.  A sparkler burns hot enough to cause third degree burns and could poke an eye out as many a mom used to warn.  Seriously, an estimated 16% of fireworks injuries in 2011 were caused by sparklers. Teach your children to handle them with care if you are buying a box for them to celebrate with this year.

Firework Safety Tips from the American Pyrotechnics Association

·          Read and follow the instructions on the label

·          Have a garden hose and/or bucket of water ready

·          Wear safety glasses when igniting fireworks

·          Don’t let young children hand fireworks or sparklers

·          Have a sober adult in charge of firework activities

·          Light only one firework at a time

·          Don’t toss, throw or combine fireworks

·          Never re-light fireworks

·          Never shoot fireworks into a metal or glass container

·          Keep pets indoors and away from fireworks

The National Fire Prevention Association [NFPA] is opposed to the use of any consumer fireworks including sparklers and firecrackers and offers the following safety tips:

·          Go to a public fireworks show, leave it to the pros

·          Don’t use consumer fireworks

·          Keep a close eye on the kids whenever fireworks are near

 Sunset Walk-In Healthcare reminds you to celebrate the 4th of July safely. Don't have a Roman Holiday like Dan Doofus , just watch.