Tips on Firework Safety

By far the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a local public firework displays where everything has been arranged by professionals. Not only is it safer than hosting your own display, but it can be a money-saver too.

When you add up the costs involved in purchasing food and drinks for the barbecue (What's the 4th of July without a barbecue?) and fireworks for your show afterwards, you might find it works out cheaper to just head to the nearest display.

Why not make day of it? Celebrate the nation's birthday by having some friends round for a tasty barbecue feast and finish the day off by treating everyone to a public fireworks display.

I've already stated that the safest way to enjoy fireworks is at a professionally set up display. But I know there are those who genuinely enjoy staging their own private displays. If you're one of those who insists on making a firework show the highlight of your 4th of July celebrations, make sure you have a source water nearby to put out any fires that may arise from mishaps.

A garden hose is best as you can easily direct a steady stream of water at the fire. Note I said 'steady stream'. A powerful blast will only spread the fire farther.

If a firecracker fails to go off make sure that no one goes near it, including yourself. Wait at least 20 minutes. If it still hasn't ignited, pour a bucket of water over it to cool down any heat that maybe building up inside.

If you plan on using fireworks this Independence Day, always buy from a professional with a good reputation.

Under no circumstances should you create your own custom firecrackers buy mixing ingredients from other Roman candles, bottle rockets, fire flowers etc. The chemistry classes taught in high school do not provide the average layperson with enough knowledge for them to experiment with explosives.

If you have any plans on creating your own 'super firecracker', please abandon them now.

For more information on firework safety, go to the following websites:

The National Council on Fireworks Safety

This site is designed to educate the public on the safe and responsible use of consumer fireworks. There are sections that provide facts and figures regarding injury rates and how the numbers are dropping, state selling seasons and a Directory of State Laws. There's even a video explaining how to use fireworks and dispose of fireworks safely.

USA.gov

This site also provides helpful tips as well as additional resources including a document you can print and refer to at anytime.

If you plan on celebrating the 5th of November (Guy Fawkes Night) and want more information, refer to these websites:

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents

Here you'll find all the information you need to make your firework parties fun rather than dangerous. As well as the Firework Code, the site also covers licensing and registration includes firework resources and additional links.

UK Fireworks Safety Website

These pages have been prepared by and sponsored by the Explosive Industry Group of the CBI to help users of fireworks have a safe and enjoyable celebration.

(Photo From
www.sfist.com)

Head over there now and you can watch a cool video of the London 2010 New Year's Day Firework Display.