How to Use 4th of July Fireworks Safely

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By krazigirl79
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Use 4th of July Fireworks Safely

Independence Day, July 4th, is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States. It is a day to celebrate our nation's beginnings after adopting the Declaration of Independence and declaring our freedom from Great Britain in 1776. Millions of people come together with friends and family every July 4th to celebrate with backyard BBQs, pool parties and evening firework displays. Many people enjoy creating their own firework displays at home. You may be surprised to know that the Center for Disease Control states these at-home firework displays cause injury to almost 10,000 people annually. Taking the time to learn how to enjoy your 4th of July safely is all it takes to prevent injury at your celebration. Here are a few safety tips that can be applied to any amateur pyrotechnic setup.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Bucket of Water
Long matches
Supervision
Ground free of easily flammable material

Step 1

Step 1: Clear an area of at least 20 feet on each side of the fireworks platform/launching area. Make sure there are no nearby weeds, shrubs, flammable materials or vehicles. If you are using a driveway or parking lot as your platform, make sure to stay away from greasy spots or areas where fuel may have leaked on the ground.
Step 2

Step 2: When you set up your fireworks, do not set them all up in one spot- several firecrackers in one area can cause a big bang and a lot of flame which may spread.
Step 3

Step 3: Keep the firecrackers that are not being lighted far away from the ones that are being lit. If one firecracker misdirects it could hit your entire supply and cause a big explosion or fire.
Step 4

Step 4: Do not modify the firecrackers in any way. Many people open up firecrackers and add in extra powder or other objects- this is extremely dangerous!
Step 5

Step 5: When lighting a firecracker, try to stay as far away as possible by using a long match or long lighter. Make sure to keep your face and hand away from the firecracker and move away quickly once the fuse catches fire.
Step 6

Step 6: Make sure firecrackers have cooled down before picking them up. You never know if one might be a dud with a little kick left in it. Once they cool- place in a bucket of water prior to disposing of the firecracker pieces.
Step 7

Step 7: No matter where you have your fireworks display, always make sure to pick up the leftover pieces to help keep your community clean.
Step 8

Have a very happy 4th of July! Spend this time with friends, family or even watching the fireworks displays on television. No matter how you celebrate this wonderful day- be safe and enjoy!

Comments

HardworkinJudy said

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on 8/3/2008 Excellent tips. I have heard of many terrible accidents as the result of fire crackers.

on 7/14/2008 Excellent tips. We hear about accidents all the time.

cookvegan said

on 7/14/2008 Good article. A dangerously night of fireworks , especially those black-cat type, can completely ruin a nice 4th.

guardtoday said

on 7/14/2008 Many Towns will have fire works so their is no reason to have your own. Why pay for them when they are free and no matter how many times someone gets hurt next year it happens again. Great artical safety is the most important thing.
Donna http://www.guardyourselfnow.com