It’s that time of year again – a time for Fourth of July picnics and Independence Day celebrations. In accordance with June’s designation as Fireworks Safety Month, the Henry & Stark County Health Departments is offering some facts on firework safety.
According to the Health Department, malfunctions and the careless use of fireworks results in nearly 10,000 injuries every year. More than 65% of all fireworks-related injuries occur during the month around the July Fourth holiday. Of those, more than half are to the hands, fingers and eyes. The most common fireworks that cause injury are firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, fountains and sparklers that are legal in many states.
Of special note, those most often hurt in firework accidents are children under 15 years old. And the injuries they receive include blinding, amputations, severe burns and even death.
All fireworks should carry the message, “Use only under close adult supervision.”
Health officials say that children cannot appreciate the dangers involved and cannot always act correctly in case of emergency. Even the “sparkler,” considered by many the ideal “safe” firework, burns at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing.
Here are some other firework safety facts:
● Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
● Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
● Firework directions and warning labels should be read and heeded.
● Fireworks should be ignited only outdoors – away from houses, dry grass and bushes and other flammable materials.
● Fireworks should be lit one-at-a-time after everyone is out of the way. They should never be lit in metal or glass containers.
● Malfunctioning fireworks should not be relit or handled.
● Never experiment with fireworks, or mix anything with their contents.
● Fireworks should always be stored in a cool, dry place.
● And finally, make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
So follow these safety suggestions and declare your independence from firework injuries and mishaps. For more information visit their website at www.henrystarkhealth.com.
