The Fourth of July is widely known for fireworks in the US, but on New Year’s Eve, the “rockets’ red glare” will be seen the world over. But sadly, each year hundreds of people spend their New Year’s Eve in the ER instead of celebrating with friends and family. Of these injuries, at least half are burn related. Thirty-six percent of injuries are to hands and fingers, while nineteen percent are to the eyes. Ring in the new year safely by learning how to get your big bang without damages by following these fireworks safety tips.
We here at SunnyScope wish everyone a safe and happy new year!
- Obey local laws regarding fireworks.
- Read labels and instructions before lighting.
- Never let children light fireworks, not even sparklers. Sparklers burn at about 2,000F so provide proper adult supervision at all times.
- Save the drinks for after the show; alcohol and flames are a dangerous combination!
- Wear safety glasses when igniting fireworks.
- Don’t try to outdo the professionals — light only one firework at a time.
- Set off your fireworks outdoors away from homes and cars.
- Never relight a “dud,” wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water to ensure it won’t relight on its own.
- Always keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby to douse any accidental flames.
- Never shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers.
- Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets.
- Never experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Dispose of spent fireworks by soaking them with water and placing them in a metal trash can away from combustible materials.
Image via colink.
