The Forsyth County Fire Department reminds residents to practice safe, responsible use of fireworks when celebrating the nation’s independence this July 4.
“Fireworks are unpredictable, and accidents and injuries can occur quickly even if a person is careful,” said Fire Chief Danny Bowman. “The best way to avoid injury is to not use fireworks and leave the fireworks displays to trained professionals.”
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 240 people on average go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around Independence Day. Children 19 years old and under account for approximately 51 percent of fireworks-related injuries.
“A common fireworks-related hazard that we see is the use of sparklers by young children,” said Division Chief Jason Shivers. “Many people do not realize that sparklers burn at temperatures of approximately 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals.”
Those who choose to use fireworks are urged to follow the safety tips below provided by the Forsyth County Fire Department and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Remember, in Georgia you must be 18 years of age or older to purchase fireworks.
- Read and follow all labels, warnings and instructions.
- Only use fireworks outdoors.
- Always have an adult present and never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Do not allow anyone under the age of 12 to handle sparklers at any time.
- Light only one firework at a time.
- The shooter should always wear eye protection and should never place any part of the body over the firework. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Never shoot fireworks off in metal or glass containers.
- Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned (wait at least 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).
- After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.
- Stay away from illegal explosives and homemade fireworks.
Be sure to make provisions to keep your pets safe as well.
- Keep pets indoors with a safe, secure place to hide.
- Turn on ambient noise, such as a radio or television, to provide some distraction from the loud sounds of fireworks.
- Ensure pets’ microchips and IDs are up-to-date.
- Resist the urge to take pets to fireworks displays and instead leave pets at home.
Always dial 911 for any emergencies. For more fireworks safety tips, visit www.cpsc.gov/fireworks.
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