HAVE WATER READY
When lighting fireworks have a bucket of water and a hose nearby; you need these for many reasons:
- Hose down stray flames or sparks.
- Hose down duds (ones that do not ignite), wait for 20 minutes to ensure it doesn’t have a delayed start and then soak them in a bucket of water for another 20 minutes.
- Soak all used fireworks before throwing them away. Trashcan fires are common on the 4th.
- Hose down the area you used to set off fireworks. Grass fires are another common occurrence on the 4th.
FIREWORKS AND TREES
According to the National Fire Protection Association “on Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.” When planning your firework safety zone, look up. Remember that your safety zone is not just on the ground, but at your tree line, too. Make sure you have just as much safe space in the air as you do on the ground.
KNOW WHAT TO DO IF THERE IS AN INJURY
Accidents happen. The Mayo Clinic website offers a wealth of information about basic first aid, but if you have any doubts, go to the emergency room or call 911.
Take our advice, use these safety tips and have a wonderful, fun 4th of July with your family and friends this year!
