8 Firework Safety Tips to Enjoy July 4th at Home
It’s hard to deny the patriotism, excitement, and anticipation you feel leading up to July 4th. Two of the things we’re sure you’re looking forward to most are the delicious food options and the spectacular fireworks to round out the day. The latter is the most prominent part of Independence Day, but they can also be one of the most dangerous if you’re not careful.
With the excitement of the 4th of July, it's easy to overlook safety precautions. Taking a few simple steps can make your celebrations memorable for all the right reasons. That’s why Merry Maids® is here to offer safety tips to help you and your family enjoy the sparkling festivities without any unexpected trips to the emergency room.
Enjoy a Safer 4th of July: Understanding the Risks of Fireworks
Fireworks, including sparklers, can cause severe burns, eye injuries, and permanent damage. Every year, multiple injuries and deaths occur nationwide.
In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported the following statistics in 2021:
- Over 11,500 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries (an injury rate of 3.5 per 100,000 individuals)
- Children under 15 accounted for 36% of these injuries
- There were 9 known non-occupational, fireworks-related deaths (six of these deaths resulted from firework misuse, one from a mortar launch malfunction, and two from unknown circumstances)
- From 2006 to 2021, there has been a significant increase in estimated emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries, averaging 274 additional injuries annually
- During the special study period from June 18 to July 18, 2021, an estimated 8,500 injuries (74% of annual fireworks-related injuries) were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments
As a result of the uptick and inherent dangers in fireworks, experts recommend avoiding illegal fireworks, which can be identified if they don’t have the code UN-336 on the packaging. All consumers, retail markets, and regulated fireworks must comply with this code to be classified as legal. Popular fireworks like M-80s, M-1000s, Quarter Sticks, and many firecrackers are also banned as hazardous substances under CPSC’s FHSA regulations (16 C.F.R. § 1500.17).
Remember that some states, including Illinois, Ohio, Iowa, and Vermont, only allow sparklers, snappers, snakes, and other novelty fireworks. Massachusetts bans all consumer fireworks. Wherever you live and whatever your local regulations may be, the most vital thing to remember is to prioritize the law and safety over short-lived thrills.
How to Avoid Firework-Related Injuries
Safety Tip 1: Never Experiment with Homemade or DIY Fireworks
Sometimes, DIYing is the better option to save time and money. In the case of fireworks, neither is worth a trip to the hospital. The chemicals involved in creating factory-made fireworks are extremely volatile, so imagine trying to do the same thing at home. It's not a great or safe idea. DIY fireworks can lead to life-threatening injury and/or property damage and may result in legal action against you.
In fact, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the regulations at 27 CFR, Part 555 require a federal explosives license or permit from ATF before importing, manufacturing, dealing in, receiving, or transporting display fireworks for a specific activity.
Safety Tip 2: Never Light Fireworks Inside or Take Them Indoors While Lit
Despite what early 2000s reality prank shows told us, lighting fireworks indoors is never advised or something to laugh about. Keeping fireworks outside is essential to ensure your safety and the safety of those looking to enjoy a colorful light show. You should always avoid lighting fireworks inside an enclosed space, even if the specific type of pyrotechnics doesn’t launch into the air.
Always light your fireworks outside and keep them there to avoid any potential injuries or property damage. Sparklers, snaps, firecrackers, and smoke bombs might seem harmless to light inside and then take outside, but these items can still do considerable harm if they accidentally catch clothing on fire. Sparklers, which seem harmless, can burn at temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.
Safety Tip 3: Always Have an Experienced Adult Present When Lighting Fireworks
Adults should always handle fireworks and firecrackers. At the very least, an adult should be present to light fireworks. Additionally, having an adult supervise fireworks usage isn’t always enough to avoid serious injury if something goes wrong. Someone with experience with fireworks is an ideal person to have on hand when showing your friends and family a good time with a fireworks display.
Safety Tip 4: Keep a Hose or Bucket of Water Nearby
When you’re just looking to put on a homemade fireworks show for loved ones, the thought of something going wrong is likely the furthest thing from your mind. And while there’s the hope that everything goes smoothly, accidents can happen and upend a good time. Having a bucket of water or a hose ready to douse a rogue firework can potentially save lives and prevent the destruction of buildings or personal property.
Safety Tip 5: Never Try to Relight Duds
Unfortunately, even if you purchase fireworks legally and follow the directions to a T, not every single one will invoke “oohs” and “aahs” from onlookers. In some cases, you’ll find some “duds” in the bunch. As tempting as it may seem, never try to relight these malfunctioning fireworks or pick them up. Instead, if there’s a delayed response or the spark on the fuse fizzles, pour water on it to ensure it’s completely extinguished.
Safety Tip 6: Keep Fireworks Away from Young Children
Fireworks are mesmerizing, especially for young children. However, they can also be incredibly dangerous. Explain the dangers of fireworks to your children, and always supervise them closely during celebrations. Designate a safe area for children to watch the fireworks display. This area should be a significant distance from where the fireworks are lit. Providing entertainment, such as glow sticks or noisemakers, can help keep them entertained safely.
Safety Tip 7: Light Fireworks at a Safe Distance
One of the most crucial aspects of fireworks safety is ensuring that they are lit in a safe location. Fireworks can misfire or change direction suddenly, posing a risk to anyone or anything nearby. Always light fireworks at least 200 feet away from people, houses, and flammable items, and have everyone stand at a safe distance while lighting the fireworks.
It is also critical to stand fireworks on a flat, hard surface. This helps ensure they launch in the intended direction and reduces the risk of tipping over. Always avoid lighting fireworks on grass, gravel, or uneven surfaces that cause instability.
Safety Tip 8: Safely Dispose of Used Fireworks
Proper disposal of fireworks is essential to prevent fires and injuries after the show. After lighting, allow used fireworks to sit for at least 20 minutes. This cooling period helps reduce the risk of any unlit or partially lit fireworks reigniting. Fill a bucket with water and submerge the cooled fireworks for several hours.
Once the fireworks have been thoroughly soaked, wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in a plastic bag to contain any residual moisture. This will ensure any remaining sparks are completely extinguished, preventing accidental fires in your trash bin. Remember: Dispose of them in your regular trash—never in your recycling bin.
Choose Merry Maids for Pre- & Post-Party Clean-Up
Before and after the fireworks and festivities are finished, cleaning is the last thing you want to deal with. This Independence Day, focus on creating memories with your loved ones while we handle the cleaning. Let Merry Maids take care of the aftermath, tackling everything from ash and debris to spills and general clutter.
Our home cleaning services help you to relax and enjoy the memories made during your 4th of July celebrations. We offer tailored cleaning solutions that cater to your needs, assisting in an enjoyable holiday.
Merry Maids is your local home cleaning partner. Request an estimate today!
