4th of July Fireworks History
It seems all American families have their own special traditions for celebrating the Fourth of July. For some, its attending a town parade. For others, it's a barbecue with family and friends. However, one tradition no Americans can ignore is Fourth of July fireworks. A brilliant display of sparkling lights and booms is a tradition Americans hold dear to their hearts, marking the Fourth of July a day to remember. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Origin of Fireworks
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Fireworks were first invented in China around 2,000 years ago. It is said that a cook accidentally mixed sulphur, charcoal and saltpeter together, causing an explosion. It is thought that fireworks and firecrackers have the ability to ward of evil spirits and ghosts. They are still used throughout China to ward of spirits and as a sign of celebration during births, deaths and other holidays.
History of Fireworks in America
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The tradition of setting off fireworks on the Fourth of July dates back to the first Independence Day. Independence Day was not always celebrated on the Fourth of July, however, but on the eighth of July. In fact, the first Independence Day celebration occurred on July 8, 1776. On that day, people celebrated by ringing bells, shooting off guns and setting fireworks. Soon thereafter, cautions were put in place to prevent injuries from gunfire or fireworks.
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Dangers of Fireworks
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According to the CDC, firework injuries increase during the Fourth of July. Some reasons why people become injured include being too close to the fireworks and experimentation. Many states have enacted laws that prevent people from buying fireworks in certain counties. There are also some bans on setting off fireworks in certain counties and states. The laws vary for each state, however, there are several nationwide laws banning certain fireworks from being set off by amateurs.
Fireworks Facts
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Fireworks are no cheap thrill! Fireworks displays for Independence Day can cost between $3,000 to a whopping $20,000. Fireworks displays need to be planned in advance, especially if it is near the water, since a Coast Guard or DNR permit may be required. When planning a fireworks display, it is important to remember that there must be a 150-feet radius around the fireworks to protect spectators. It is recommended to find a skilled team of pyrotechnicians when planning a large fireworks display.
Backyard Fun
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Fireworks and firecracker injuries are a growing concern for parents. Contrary to the popular belief of being a "safe" alternative to firecrackers, sparklers are actually the second most common cause of fireworks injury during the Fourth of July. Dadlabs.com, a parenting website, encourages families to use glow-in-the-dark products to have a safe, fireworks/firecrackers-free Fourth of July. Glow-in-the-dark products come in a variety of fun forms, such as glow sticks, glow paint and glow Frisbees.
The Tradition Lives On
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Despite their availability for an accident, fireworks are as traditional as red, white and blue on the Fourth of July. However, by taking proper precautions or attending a community display of fireworks, chances are you won't be taking a dreaded trip to the ER this Fourth of July. As a tip, if you want to see a spectacular show of patriotism this Independence Day, contact your parks and recreation department to see where the closest fireworks display will be. The Fourth of July just would not be complete without a parade, barbecue and, of course, fireworks!
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