Fireworks cause about 18,500 reported fires each year*. Commissioner of Insurance and State Fire Marshal Mike Chaney wants you to stay safe if using fireworks this Fourth of July.
“More U.S. fires are reported on Independence Day in a typical year, than on any other day of the year, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause,”Chaney said.
Young children* playing with fire are among the top causes of fires. Chaney said, “Anyone choosing to handle fireworks this holiday needs to be especially mindful of proper safety precautions, particularly if young children are around.”
The risk of fireworks injury is highest for young people ages 0-4. Sparklers, a favorite of children, are a leading cause of fireworks injuries*. More than half of the fireworks injuries to children, under five, were caused by sparklers. Sparklers can reach up to 1200 º Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns.
Chaney added that more pets are lost on Independence Day than any other day of the year. Check with your local veterinarian and animal shelters to protect your animals from becoming frightened by fireworks.
For those choosing to use consumer fireworks, Chaney says to follow these safety tips:
• Observe local laws. Some municipalities outlaw fireworks from being used within city limits. Other zoning laws could apply in other areas. If you are unsure whether it is legal to use fireworks where you live, check with local officials.
• Use common sense: read and follow the directions on each firework.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Buy from reliable fireworks sellers. Store them in a cool, dry place.
• Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks.
• Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and have a hose ready.
• Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees.
• Light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance.
• Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks.
• Never give fireworks to small children.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
There will be lots of fireworks displays open to the public throughout the state on Independence Day. The National Fire Prevention Association believes attending one of those and leaving fireworks to professionals is the safest way to celebrate the Fourth of July.
State Fire Marshal Chaney echoes that, saying, “I’m urging you to have a great time celebrating the birth of our nation, but also be safe when you celebrate.”
HEAT SAFETY
Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees. Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
Avoid extreme temperature changes.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat. If someone doesn’t have air conditioning, they should seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
PICNIC SAFETY
1. Don’t leave food out in the hot sun. Keep perishable foods in a cooler with plenty of ice or freezer gel packs.
2. Wash your hands before preparing.
3. If you are going to cook on a grill, always supervise the grill when in use. Don’t add charcoal starter fluid when coals have already been ignited. Use the long-handled tools especially made for cooking on the grill to keep the chef safe.
4. Never grill indoors. Keep the grill out in the open, away from the house, the deck, tree branches, or anything that could catch fire.
5. Make sure everyone, including the pets, stays away from the grill.
