When it comes to adding a burst of vibrant hues and exhilaration to festive occasions, fireworks have long been a popular choice. However, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards they pose, such as burns, injuries, fire hazards, and distress to our furry friends. Here are some facts from National Fire Protection Association about fireworks:
- Fireworks start around 19,500 fires annually.
- Most firework injuries are to the eyes, hands, fingers, or legs.
- Sparklers cause 25% of injuries leading to emergency room visits.
- Children ages 10 to 14 have the highest rate of firework injuries.
To put things into context, sparklers have the potential to reach temperatures as high as 1,200 F, surpassing the melting point of glass. Although sparklers burn rapidly, their destructive potential should not be underestimated. In a matter of moments, sparklers can set clothing ablaze, resulting in severe burns for both people and pets. Furthermore, a simple mishap like dropping a sparkler could have catastrophic consequences, potentially leading to a devastating house fire or even a widespread brush fire.
In light of statistics such as these, numerous states have enacted laws prohibiting the possession or use of fireworks. When organizing your own firework shows at home, prioritizing safety is paramount. By implementing a few straightforward measures, you can avoid accidents and ensure that your celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons.
Make Sure Your Fireworks are Legal
Before you buy or use fireworks, it is crucial to verify their legality in your vicinity. Take the time to review local ordinances and state laws to ensure compliance. Keep in mind that even if fireworks are permitted in your state, there may be restrictions in your specific community. If you decide to proceed with fireworks, it is essential to adhere to the following safety guidelines provided by the Department of Homeland Security:
Purchase fireworks from reliable sources
To ensure the safety of your fireworks, it is crucial to make your purchases from trustworthy and authorized sources. By obtaining your fireworks from licensed and reputable shops or dealers, you can be confident that the products you are receiving adhere to the necessary safety regulations. It is also important to only select fireworks that are specifically rated for home use.
Maintain a safe distance
To ensure safety, it is important to establish a designated area for launching fireworks that is free from any potential hazards. This area should be flat, devoid of buildings, vehicles, pets, children, and flammable objects. If you are using ground-based fireworks such as fountains, it is recommended to keep spectators at a minimum distance of 35 feet. For aerial fireworks, spectators should be kept at a safe distance of 150 feet from the launch site.
Take caution when lighting fireworks
When it comes to setting off fireworks, it is crucial to prioritize safety and prevent children from handling or igniting them. It is critical to keep fireworks grounded and ensure they are kept at a safe distance from both individuals and animals. To ignite the fireworks, it is recommended to use a stem lighter, like a grill lighter. It is best to light one firework at a time and to avoid positioning any part of your body directly over a firework or holding it in your hand while igniting it.
Ensure to assess the potential for wildfires in your vicinity and remain vigilant of red flag warnings. The issuance of red flag warnings by the National Weather Service signifies an increased danger of wildfires due to factors such as minimal precipitation and gusty winds. If you are uncertain about the level of risk, it is advisable not to take any risks. Remember, a single spark is all it takes to ignite a devastating fire.
Douse the duds in water
If a firework fails to ignite, it is important to take immediate action. First, extinguish the firework by pouring water over it and dispose of it properly. It is crucial to wait for at least 10 minutes to prevent any potential delayed explosions. Afterwards, place the firework in a bucket of water. Under no circumstances should you attempt to inspect the firework by looking into it, as this can result in severe injury or even death.
Wear safety gear
To ensure your safety, it is important to utilize appropriate safety gear and attire when handling fireworks. Always ignite fireworks outdoors and have a readily available water source, such as buckets of water or a connected hose, nearby. It is crucial to wear safety goggles and clothing that is nonflammable. Additionally, it is advised to avoid wearing loose garments that may easily catch fire.
Avoid alcohol
It is crucial to refrain from consuming alcohol while handling fireworks, as the two should never be mixed. It is imperative to be in a sober state when operating fireworks for safety reasons.
Keep pets away and in a calm environment
To ensure the safety and well-being of your beloved pets, it is crucial to keep them at a safe distance from fireworks. While fireworks may be a source of excitement and enjoyment for us, our furry friends are often bewildered by the loud noises and dazzling lights. This confusion can lead to panic and a desperate attempt to flee from the unfamiliar situation. It is essential to recognize that this not only puts your fireworks display at risk but also poses a potential danger to the spectators. Therefore, it is highly recommended to keep your pets indoors while you indulge in the fireworks extravaganza. Take proactive measures such as closing windows and drawing curtains to minimize both the noise and visual impact on your pets. Furthermore, providing a calming environment by turning on the television or radio can help soothe their nerves. Additionally, remember to create a secure space for them, complete with their favorite toys, cozy bedding, and tasty treats, so they feel safe and comforted during this noisy event.
Firework Alternatives
Instead of traditional fireworks, some cities are choosing to organize drone laser shows as a more environmentally friendly option. However, before considering hosting your own drone laser event, it is crucial to consult local and state laws to ensure compliance and avoid any legal violations.
In the event that you choose to abstain from using fireworks, here are a few alternative options worth considering:
- Paint-filled water balloons — For a fun and colorful activity, consider using paint-filled water balloons. Hang up a sheet, tarp, or shipping box as a target for the exploding balloons. It’s important to use water-soluble paint and advise your guests to wear suitable clothing for this messy activity. You could also use color powder that’s common at color runs.
- Glow Sticks — Illuminate the night with glow sticks, which have the ability to emit light for an extended period of time and can be worn on any part of the body.
- Noisemakers — Create some noise by using noisemakers, which can either be purchased from a store or crafted at home. Simply repurpose old plastic containers or water bottles, filling them with rice or any other objects that produce sound.
- Outdoor projector — Transform your outdoor space into a captivating movie theater by projecting a dazzling firework show or hosting an enchanting outdoor movie night.
- Confetti cannons — One idea is to use confetti cannons, to create a burst of color and fanfare. You can use water-soluble rice paper confetti to make cleanup easier.
- Bubble machines — Enhance the nighttime ambiance by creating your own luminous bubbles using a mixture of dish soap, glycerin, and glow-in-the-dark water-based paint.
This is not a comprehensive list, but it’s a great starting point to begin a new tradition in decorating or crafting. If you search online for “firework alternatives,” you’ll find a wealth of ideas that will cater to your specific needs.
Home Insurance May Not Cover Firework Accidents
It is important to note that your home insurance policy may not provide coverage for accidents involving fireworks. This includes any incidents such as fires or injuries to others. It is particularly crucial to consider this if you are responsible for any harm or damage caused by fireworks in areas where they are prohibited. It is essential to be aware of the potential legal consequences and potential fines that you may face. If you’re planning to use fireworks at your celebration, check with your insurance provider to see if you’re covered in the event of an accident.
To ensure the safety of your home and neighboring homes, it is advisable to refrain from using fireworks at home. Instead, entrust the task to trained professionals and explore alternative ways to create a safe and festive atmosphere for your home party.
