Firework Safety and Hazards | SERVPRO® of Prattville

6/25/2022 (Permalink)

“More fires are reported on July 4th than any other day of the year. Use caution and be safe when using fireworks.”

Independence Day is just around the corner, and you know what that means! Celebrating our freedom, parades, remembering our country’s history, enjoying tasty food, swimming, and watching FIREWORKS! Many of us look forward to spending the day with our loved ones and watching fireworks together.

Did you know that China invented fireworks as a tool to frighten evil spirits away? They believed lighting fireworks would scare them back into the underworld, shunning them from entering our earthly world. The only thing you should be frightened of now is using fireworks irresponsibly. 

Each July 4th, thousands of people are injured while consuming fireworks, most often children and teens. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks, including devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death.  

Let’s Talk About Statistics

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission 2020 Fireworks Annual Report, there has been a fifty percent increase in deaths and injuries since 2019. The same report shows an estimated 16,000 injuries reported for fireworks and 900 injuries reported for sparklers. Of those injuries, 44% were severe burns comprising 14% eyes, 22% head, face, and ears, and 31% hands. With statistics like these, it is crucial to know how to be safe and prevent injuries.

Light In A Safe Area 

When using fireworks, you want to ensure you are lighting them in a safe location. The ground must be clear of trees or brush, with ample open space. Make sure it is flat and sturdy as well. Fireworks must be used away from structures, people, and flammable objects.

Ensure Your Fireworks Are Legal

Check your local laws and regulations to ensure that fireworks in your area are legal BEFORE buying or using them. Some counties do not allow for the use of fireworks and can carry hefty fines.

Light Fireworks Responsibly 

It is essential to light one firework at a time. Remove the firework from the container, light it with a long flame lighter, and move away quickly after lighting the fuse. Ensure anyone observing the fireworks is maintaining a safe distance. Remember, do NOT try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks! Soak them in water and ditch them immediately. 

Position fireworks away from homes, trees, and shrubbery. Never point or throw fireworks at another person. Never hold lighted fireworks in your hand. You want to ensure the safety of everyone and prevent as many injuries as possible. 

Sparklers Are More Dangerous Than You Think 

Sparklers alone can burn up to 2,000 degrees resulting in severe burns. That is as hot as a blow torch, and that level of heat can burn through some metals! Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing; many children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. For children under five years old, sparklers accounted for nearly half of the estimated injuries. Children must be heavily supervised if you allow them to use fireworks. 

Supervise Children Closely

Ideally, children should not use fireworks. The highest number of reported injuries comes from  . Ensure you have close adult supervision if you allow children to use fireworks. Do not allow children to play with or light fireworks unattended. 

Disposing Fireworks Properly

It is a good idea to keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of a fire. After fireworks finish burning, douse them with plenty of water from a bucket or garden hose before discarding them. 

Fireworks can not only lead to severe injuries but also destructive fires. House fires, damaged entertainment venues, and wildfires are typical results of the misuse of fireworks. Know how to use fireworks safely and how to educate those around you on taking safety precautions. 

Should you find yourself with fire damage because of fireworks, SERVPRO® of Prattville is ready to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 334.284.1612 for all your fire restoration needs.