By The Kewanee Voice    June 21, 2023

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It’s that time of year again that the Henry and Stark County Health Departments’ and First Choice issues safety tips and precautions to take for Fourth of July picnics and Independence celebrations. The tips align with June’s designation as Fireworks Safety Month. The department offers up facts on firework safety.

RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion with the Henry and Stark County Health Departments warns of the injuries that are caused each year by handling of fireworks.

“Malfunction and 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 4th 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,” said Tucker.

Those injured most often in firework accidents are children less than 15 years-old. And the injuries they receive include blindings, amputations, severe burns and even death, she said.

All fireworks should carry the message, “Use only under close adult supervision.” Children most often can’t recognize the dangers involved and can’t 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 guidelines:

• 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.

The Health Department urges residents to follow the safety suggestions and “declare your independence from firework injuries and mishaps.” For more information visit our website at www.henrystarkhealth.com or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments and Follow Us on Twitter and Instagram.