Firework safety: How to prevent injuries and potential fire hazards, Fire damage in Cherry Hill NJ, Fire damage in Moorestown

Every year, Independence Day celebrations across the country include

the fiery, colorful displays and explosive pops of consumer-grade
fireworks.

Though consumer fireworks are as common as cookouts during America's
birthday, their use still results in numerous fires and bodily injuries
every year.

Consumer fireworks are safer than they have ever been, but consumers
need to have a designated shooter that has read the label and caution
statement of each firework and stay sober until the fireworks are over.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety is a charitable organization
with a mission to educate the public on the safe and responsible use of
consumer fireworks.

In the latest report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission,
more than 11,900 firework-related injuries were reported in 2015

According to the organization, in addition to abstaining from alcohol
use until after the fireworks display is over, parents and caretakers
should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks. Young
children should never be permitted to handle fireworks.

Proper handling of fireworks varies by type, but instructions and use
should be clearly stated on the label. In addition, the organization
always recommends having water ready both in a bucket and in a charged
hose.

Burns and eye injuries can occur if safety guidelines are not
followed. Safety glasses should be worn by the designated shooter while
those watching the display maintain a safe distance away to enjoy the
show.

Fireworks laws across the country can also vary both on a state and
local level. Legal fireworks in one state may not be legal in another.

For state regulations, we suggest contacting the State Fire Marshal,
but consumers should also check with their local fire department for the
fireworks that are approved to purchase and use in their city or
county.

Fireworks also pose fire hazards, especially in areas that have
experienced ongoing drought conditions or persistent heat. State and
local officials may issue a fireworks ban based on the current weather
conditions in the area, especially if wildfire risks are high.

Considerations for a fireworks ban include
the drought monitor, soil dryness and the amount of precipitation the
region has received when compared to their normal average.

In 2013, there were 15,600, referring to structure and outdoor fires started by fireworks usage.

According to the organization, "dud" fireworks can also pose a hazard
and should be submerged in water after waiting for 20 minutes. If a
firework does not ignite correctly, consumers should not try to ignite
it.

Disposal of spent fireworks is also important to help mitigate the risk of fire hazards.

Once all used fireworks have been soaked in water, their remains
should be placed in a nonflammable trash can, outside and several feet
away from a home, deck or other flammable structures.

For more fireworks safety tips and resources, visit the non-profit's website at www.fireworkssafety.org.

Jon Barrett

Marketing and Sales Support

SERVPRO of Cherry Hill/Haddonfield

Phone: (856) 662-2772

Email: JBarrett@SP9157.com

Websites:

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