4th of July Safety

The fourth of July is a festive time to celebrate our country, but don't let your holiday be marked by carelessness. The latest CPSC estimates a total of 8,600 hospital emergency room treated injuries in 2010. Don't let you or your loved ones become a part of the 2011 statistics by following some basic fireworks safety tips:

• Never allow young children to play with fireworks. Although sparklers are seemingly safe, they burn at high temperatures that can easily ignite clothing.


• Only allow older children to use fireworks under close adult supervision.


• Set off fireworks outside in clear area away from buildings, dry leaves, or other flammable materials. Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.


• Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that fail to ignite or explode.


• Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in water and throw them away.


• Never light fireworks in a container, especially one made of glass or metal.


• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.


• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place. Check instructions for special storage directions.


• Observe local laws.


• Never have any portion of your body over a firework while lighting.


• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.

Sandy Hayden